What Surprising Names Are Trending Amongst Messi’s Kids’ Favourite Footballers?

Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine footballer, recently revealed an intriguing tidbit about his life as a father to three boys who are growing up in the world of football. Although he is now a key player for Inter Miami after his historic tenure at Barcelona, Messi’s children are carving out their own preferences in contemporary football, which raises questions about the connections they maintain with the sport's giants. In recent interviews, Messi disclosed that his sons are avid fans of several elite footballers from across Europe. Notable names on their list include global stars like Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr, Erling Haaland, and Robert Lewandowski, as well as the young sensation Lamine Yamal from FC Barcelona, the club that made their father a household name. With this blend of emerging talent and seasoned figures, it illustrates how Messi's family is tuned into the football landscape's evolving narrative. This revelation is particularly striking. The inclusion of players from both Barcelona and Real Madrid — fierce rivals in Spanish football — like Mbappé and Vinícius Jr, could have far-reaching implications in the ongoing narratives of loyalty and fandom within the Messi household. For many, it is surprising that Messi's children would show an interest in players who represent a club that has often been seen as the enemy during Messi’s illustrious years at Barcelona. Messi himself remarked during a discussion with Simplemente Futbol, "The players my kids are following? Mbappé, Vinicius, Yamal, Lewandowski, Haaland..." This statement reflects not only their leanings but also hints at how football's younger audience, including Messi’s sons, is increasingly informed by performances rather than historical rivalries. The dynamics of Messi's family life and their football preferences invite deeper commentary on the evolution of football as a global sport. It's a testament to how the younger generation is often less tethered to the deeply ingrained rivalries of bygone eras. Additionally, it raises questions about how today’s soccer idols influence the aspirations of tomorrow’s players. Interestingly, Messi’s eldest son, Thiago, is already participating in youth football at the U-13 level with Inter Miami, exhibiting the same passion and competitive spirit that his father has famously shown on the pitch. Moreover, Thiago was spotted wearing a Barcelona jersey adorned with Lamine Yamal’s name, demonstrating the admiration he holds for the young prodigy, thus highlighting the dual allegiance which exists within a single household. As we look forward, it will be fascinating to see how Messi manages this unique convergence of personal and professional life in football as he himself aims for one last hurrah at the 2026 World Cup. Messi's journey underscores a significant transition not just for him, but for football fans everywhere. Their evolving interests underscore a broader trend in the sport, where lineage and legacy are redefined, and the narratives of rivalry and admiration coexist in harmony. Will this new generation of footballers be able to bridge traditional rivalries or will they pave a new path altogether? As we await further developments, fans are invited to share their thoughts on this fascinating subject.

• Kylian Mbappé
• Lamine Yamal
• Lionel Messi

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