27 August 2023 , 19:33
653
0
Inter Miami has welcomed Lionel Messi's son, Thiago, as the newest addition to their club's youth academy, with the 10-year-old set to become part of the U12 squad.
The youngster is keen to follow in his father's legendary footsteps and make his own career in the game. Whilst he has a long road ahead of him, his journey will continue as part of Inter Miami's youth setup whilst his dad continues to make an immeasurable impact on the first-team.
While an elaborate event and televised spectacle marked Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami, Thiago's inclusion seamlessly integrates him into the roster through a simple announcement on the club's website. Leo's arrival at the club was a primetime event production through Apple TV called "Bienvenido, Messi."
Thiago Messi joins the club under Diego Garcia's guidance, contingent upon his work permit's visa approval. The likes of Romeo Beckham, son of David Beckham, and Harvey Neville, son of Phil Neville, have also been part of Inter Miami's developmental program in recent years.
Preseason preparations for the Inter Miami CF Academy commenced at the month's inception, setting the stage for an upcoming, exhilarating campaign. The youth teams, including those up to U17s, will remain engaged in the MLS NEXT league for the forthcoming season.
Mirror Football's Premier League team of 2022 as champions dominate
The U-12 team will remain active in the Florida Academy League. The U-19 squad will also continue participating in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL), establishing themselves as formidable contenders in the competitive Florida South Premiere Conference.
Founded in September 2019, the Inter Miami Academy has rapidly achieved significant milestones. Six academy players—Edison Azcona, Benjamin Cremaschi, Ian Fray, David Ruiz, Noah Allen, and Felipe Valencia—have inked Homegrown contracts with the Miami-based club.
Antonella Roccuzzo (L) with children Thiago Messi, Mateo Messi Roccuzzo, and Ciro Messi RoccuzzoNotably, five of them have made their MLS debuts during the 2023 season, decisively contributing to the team's achievements. Their collective efforts were pivotal in securing the First Team's triumph in the 2023 Leagues Cup, marking the club's inaugural official championship.
Director Victor Pastora reflected on the academy's success, "Following our highly successful 2022-23 season, we eagerly anticipate another exceptional year. We extend a warm welcome to our competitive players, their devoted parents, and our dedicated staff."
"Our academy program was conceived to empower talented South Florida players in pursuit of their aspirations. We honor this privilege by dedicating ourselves to maximize each day's potential."
Lionel Messi with his sons during his time at PSGPastora continued, "Our commitment extends to nurturing partnerships with collaborating clubs and fostering relationships with every youth program across South Florida. Gratitude is owed to our proprietors and sporting director for their unwavering support, providing an exemplary platform to realize our aspirations."
Pastora has over 25 years of experience in youth and professional coaching. He has held various technical and coaching positions. Recently, he led the Academy's U-15 team to victory in the 2022 MLS Next National championship. In tandem with Thiago Messi, a roster of new talents is poised to join Inter Miami's U12 squad with Messi included amongst a list of nine new arrivals in that age group.