The way Lionel Messi treated a Real Madrid fan in Miami showed the admirable qualities of the Argentine superstar, where love of football surpasses all competition.
Omar, a loyal Real Madrid fan, shared his memorable experience when he met Messi at a restaurant in Miami. He said: “I met Messi at a restaurant in Miami. I told myself I couldn’t let this moment pass. I wanted to take a photo with him, but I was afraid that he would refuse because I was wearing a Real Madrid shirt.”
However, Messi’s reaction surprised Omar. The Argentine superstar proactively asked: “What’s the matter? Do you want to take a photo?”.
When Omar confessed his embarrassment at wearing a Real Madrid shirt, Messi responded tactfully: “It’s okay, I also have a few Real Madrid shirts from swapping shirts with the players. Even if you don’t like me, I’m willing to take pictures.”
Messi took a photo with Omar – a Real Madrid fan in Miami. Photo: X.
Omar concluded: “Messi’s reaction shocked me and made me realize that the media is the one who creates hatred between players and teams, but the reality is different.”
Messi’s reaction showed the Argentine’s sophistication and gentle personality. Although Omar was concerned about wearing the Real Madrid shirt – Messi’s old rivals – he proved that maturity and love of football can overcome all boundaries.
Messi is a Barcelona legend, and Real Madrid are their arch-rivals. Photo: Getty.
This story is not the only case that shows Messi’s precious character. Another example is the experience of John Obi Mikel – a former Nigerian player, at the U20 World Cup. Mikel recalled: “When we lost to Argentina in the U20 World Cup, Messi won the Golden Ball and I got the Silver Ball. At the end of the ceremony, I told him: ‘You took the Golden Ball from me. I deserved it. I played better than you.’”
Messi’s response once again showed his respect and sportsmanship. Messi replied: “I have nothing to do with that. The committee will judge, but you reached the final and you did something great for your country.” Messi even suggested: “Take the Golden Ball and give me the Silver Ball if you want.”
Messi received the Golden Ball of the 2005 U20 World Cup, Mikel (right) received the Silver Ball. Photo: Getty.
Years later, when they met again at the 2018 World Cup, Messi still remembered this memory and called Mikel “golden boy”. This made Mikel exclaim: “During this time until now, he has convinced me that you really deserve it. You are the best in the world, Leo”.
These stories not only highlight Messi’s incredible qualities, but also demonstrate the power of respect and sportsmanship in football. They remind us that, despite the many differences and rivalries on the pitch, players and fans can still connect through a shared love of the game.
Lionel Messi’s massive jersey collection. Photo: Instagram.
Messi’s actions also raise questions about the role of the media in creating and perpetuating hostility between clubs and their fans. Clearly, we need to look at the relationship between teams and players in a more balanced way, beyond the stories of rivalry and competition.
Lionel Messi is not only a superstar on the pitch, but also a role model in life. This once again affirms La Pulga’s position not only in the hearts of Barcelona or Argentina fans, but also in the minds of football fans around the world.
