Lionel Messi expressed his admiration and joy after meeting Italian football icon Roberto Baggio during a visit in the United States, where Messi’s club, Inter Miami CF, is competing in the FIFA Club World Cup.
The Argentina captain was gifted a signed Italy jersey by Baggio, featuring the classic 1994 World Cup design—an event that was also held in the U.S. at the time. Messi posed for a photo with Baggio and the shirt, later sharing the moment on his official Instagram account.
“What a wonderful sight! Thank you, Roberto, for this special and meaningful gift and for the lovely chat we shared,” Messi wrote. “You are a Crack and an historical legend of football. It’s always a pleasure to welcome you when you want to come and see us!”
Baggio, one of Italy’s most celebrated footballers, won the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards in 1993. His career includes two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia, and a UEFA Cup. He played a key role in leading Italy to the 1994 World Cup final and was part of the squad that finished third in the 1990 tournament.
Known as “The Divine Ponytail” for his distinctive hairstyle, Baggio earned 56 caps with the Italian national team, scoring 27 goals and providing 14 assists.
Baggio has previously spoken of his admiration for Messi, once saying, “Leo Messi is the best in the world. When he decides to score a goal, he scores it. I would’ve loved to have played alongside him. In fact, I’d still like that today.”
