LeBron James?is set to enter his 21st NBA season. He is coming off a historic season that outscored his career averages. However, in the off-season, he has plenty of time. He is indulging in several other things than just on-court action. Whether rehabilitating his foot injury, handing a well-structured speech at ESPY Awards, changing back his jersey number or supporting Messi in his first Inter-Miami game, he is going with the flow. James’ relationship with football is not new. Despite his tight schedule, he has always taken advantage of his global reach to support the sport.

His connection with football is not just personal but professional as well. In 2011, LBJ bought 2% ownership in Liverpool for $6.5 million. By 2021, he converted his profitable stake in Liverpool to a 1% ownership share in the Fenway Sports Group. At the time, the soccer team’s value was approximately $4.1 billion, making James’ stake worth around $82 million.

LeBron James names his favorite Football players

During pandemic, when all major sporting events were stopped, almost everyone was in isolation. King James was seen interacting with his fans in one of his IG Lives. Answering one of the fans who asked him about his favorite football players, James initially checked off everyone on the Liverpool team. With that, he said, “Mbappe, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, those guys are legends, I love those guys.” He also gave high regards to Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic later in the video.

The video is from 2020 and has recently surfaced amidst Miami’s acquisition of Lionel Messi.

Read More: Despite $228,000,000 Wealth, Giannis Antetokounmpo Reveals Favorite Chinese Food He Doesn?t Get in America: ?For 5 Years I?ve Been Craving??

Players and celebrities from all around the country came together to cheer for the 7-time Ballon d’Or winner. As per the club’s announcement,?Messi’s deal?spans two and a half seasons and earns him an annual salary between $50 million and $60 million in cash alone, with potential additional income from sponsorships with Apple and Adidas.

LeBron James cheers for Messi in his debut

Lionel Messi’s first game with Inter-Miami is in the books. He showcased why he remains the most sought-after footballer, even in the twilight of his career. Before this historic match, Messi had a special encounter with the King himself. The two GOATs not only shook hands but embraced each other, displaying mutual respect. Several other stars, like Serena Williams?and Kim Kadarshian, were also present in the stadium.

Messi showcased his exceptional prowess in the 94th minute of the match against Cruz Azul by delivering a breathtaking free-kick that sealed a 2-1 victory for Inter Miami. His American debut came in the most Hollywood’esque style — a last-minute nailbiter. The stadium erupted with emotions as the Argentine legend demonstrated his dominance on the field. Messi’s goal was a thing of beauty, as he expertly manoeuvred the ball past four Cruz Azul defenders with precision, curling the ball into the upper left corner of the net. The goal left the club owner and a legend, David Beckham, in tears.?

Now with?Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James once resided in Miami for his time with the Heat. Messi has also shifted to Miami for his commitment to the team.

Watch This Story:?Despite Sharing ?23? Jersey Number With LeBron James, Michael Jordan Still Stands Far Away From NBA GOAT Rival in This All-Time Jersey List

Like James, Messi is known as one of the best football players ever to do it. Can he lead Inter-Miami to the MLS this season?