Hours After Lionel Messi’s FIFA ‘The Best’ Nomination Ex-MLS Icon Tattoos Inter Miami Star’s Signature on His Hand

After Lionel Messi moved from Paris to Miami, many questioned whether Inter Miami marked the twilight of his career. Messi, however, has swiftly put those doubts to rest. In 2022, he helped end La Albiceleste’s 36-year wait for a third World Cup. To recognize his outstanding contributions, FIFA has nominated him for the prestigious ‘Best Player’ award for 2023. Just hours after this announcement, a former MLS icon immortalized Messi’s legacy by tattooing the soccer star’s signature on his hand.

Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has been nothing short of magical. The Argentine maestro scored an impressive 11 goals in his first 11 appearances for the club. Furthermore, he has clinched a trophy and guided Inter Miami to the Open Cup final.

Ex-MLS legend inks Lionel Messi’s signature as a sign of deep admiration

An incident during a match perfectly shows the depth of love Messi receives. In the 78th minute of a match for Inter Miami, hundreds of fans left the stadium when Messi was substituted. This level of devotion is not limited to fans alone; players, too, express their admiration for La Pulga.

A former MLS icon, Marcos Mondaini, recently demonstrated his profound respect for the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner. He tattoed Lionel Messi‘s signature on his arm. While collecting signed memorabilia from sports idols is commonplace, tattooing a signature onto one’s body is a unique and extraordinary gesture.

The practice of collecting memorabilia signed by sports icons is not new. Signed collectibles often hold great value among enthusiasts. However, getting an athlete’s signature tattooed on one’s body takes this admiration to another level. Beyond the monetary worth, it represents an emotional connection that transcends basic fandom.

Also Read: After Absence in Argentina’s Triumph, Lionel Messi Pens 16-Word Farewell Note for $5,000,000 Ex-teammate, as He Departs to Middle East

Recently, FIFA announced the Men’s Best Player award nominees for 2023, and Messi found himself among the 12 shortlisted players. 

Lionel Messi nominated by FIFA, rival snubbed

Remarkably, if he clinches the title, Messi will mark his third time winning the Best Player award, as he previously won in 2019 and 2022. The list of nominees includes other outstanding talents such as Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Julian Alvarez, Marcelo Brozovic, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gündogan, Rodri, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Victor Osimhen, Declan Rice, and Bernardo Silva.

Notably absent from the list is Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s perennial rival. This omission has sparked a flurry of discussions and speculations among fans worldwide.

As Lionel Messi stands on the verge of potentially winning his third FIFA ‘Best Player’ award, Whether Messi can secure this coveted title once more remains a hot topic of debate. Can Messi win his third ‘Best Player’ award and solidify his status as one of the greatest footballers ever? What do you think? Let us know in the comments!!

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