Whenever Lionel Messi plays for Inter Miami or the Argentine national team, fans eagerly scramble for his jersey, reflecting his immense popularity. Alan Cantero, a forward for Alianza Lima, had the special moment of receiving Messi’s famed number 10 shirt after his debut in 2026, which brought him to tears as he celebrated his goal during the match.
Inter Miami Faces Unexpected Loss in 2026 Opener
Inter Miami is gearing up for a new season in North America following their remarkable MLS Cup win in 2025. They aim to compete on various fronts and may even receive a unique invitation to participate in the Copa Libertadores.
Javier Mascherano’s team, now adjusting to the retirements of former Barcelona veterans Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, is working to regain their form ahead of upcoming competitive matches.
The Herons showed some early-game rust in their first match of the year, suffering a surprising 3-0 defeat against Peru, yet Messi’s presence was a significant draw for fans and players alike.
Cantero Emotional After Swapping Jerseys with Messi
Cantero left the field proudly wearing Messi’s shirt and expressed his emotions when speaking to Latina Deportes. “Leo is my idol. He’s shaped who I am since childhood and has always been an inspiration. Asking for his jersey was truly an honor,” he shared, adding that he plans to frame it at home.
With tears in his eyes, he continued: “When the game ended, I finally got to greet him. It’s a moment I’d been dreaming of. Being on the same field as him is such an honor. His humility and willingness to help young players are remarkable. This experience is a dream come true.”
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Messi’s Jersey: A ‘Trophy’ for Opponents
Messi readily gives away his jerseys, which are cherished by those fortunate enough to receive them. Santiago Sosa, who played against Messi while with Atlanta United in September 2023, remarked to ESPN about swapping jerseys with the icon, saying: “(Players) typically have two jerseys for a game, one for each half. I gave him mine, and he gifted me his from the first half. It’s a special memory I’ll cherish, not just for me but my family. In a way, it’s like a trophy.”
He added humorously about Messi’s shirt: “When I picked it up, it had a lovely fragrance!”
In February 2025, during a CONCACAF Champions Cup match between Inter Miami and Sporting KC, it was noted that referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nara had requested Messi’s shirt after the game.
Messi scored his first goal of the competitive season in that match, played under chilly conditions, but to avoid any on-field discussions, Nara was later presented with a gift in the dressing room.
Champions Tour: Inter Miami South American Matches
Inter Miami bounced back against Alianza Lima after conceding two quick goals in the first half from veteran striker Paolo Guerrero. Luis Ramos added another goal in the 72nd minute, while Messi and Luis Suarez (both secured on new contracts in South Florida) teamed up to secure the final goal.
As Inter Miami prepares to transition to their new home at Freedom Park, fans can look forward to more opportunities to trade jerseys with Messi during their upcoming Champions Tour in South America.
They will face Atlético Nacional in Colombia on January 31, followed by a match against Ecuador’s Barcelona de Guayaquil on February 7, and then Independiente de Valle in Puerto Rico on February 13.
Fan Take: This news highlights Messi’s continued impact on the game, drawing fans’ admiration across the globe and fostering a personal connection with players. As he continues to inspire both young athletes and seasoned opponents alike, it reinforces soccer’s rich culture of respect and reverence for the sport’s legends.
