Footage from a recent match between Atlanta United and Inter Miami has gone viral, showing an Atlanta United player attempting to get Lionel Messi’s shirt after the match. However, the star player had already given it away to another player.
In the video, Atlanta United midfielder Marcelino Moreno can be seen approaching Messi and asking for his shirt. Messi, who is known for his generosity with fellow players, seemed to agree and began to take off his shirt. However, before he could hand it over to Moreno, he was approached by another Inter Miami player who also asked for the shirt. Messi obliged and gave the shirt away to the other player.
Moreno, who was standing nearby, appeared disappointed but took the rejection in stride. He later tweeted a photo of himself with Messi, expressing his admiration for the player and his generosity on and off the field.
Messi’s gesture of giving away his shirt is a common practice in football, with players often exchanging shirts as a sign of respect and sportsmanship. It is also a coveted souvenir for fans and collectors.
The incident has sparked a debate among fans and commentators, with some criticizing the Atlanta United player for his apparent lack of sportsmanship in attempting to get Messi’s shirt. Others have defended Moreno, noting that it is a common practice in the sport and that there was no harm in asking.
Regardless of the controversy, the image of Messi giving away his shirt to a fellow player is a reminder of the positive values and camaraderie that can be found in football. Messi’s generosity and sportsmanship continue to make him a beloved figure in the sport, both on and off the field.
