Lionel Messi surprised rival fans when they trolled him during an Inter Miami celebration.
Messi, 37, was back in action with his Major League Soccer outfit in a pre-season friendly.
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The match took place against Mexican giant Club America in Las Vegas.
Argentina equalized the score at 1-1 by scoring their team’s opener from close range in the 34th minute.
However, he appeared to take a dig at Club América fans after being subjected to taunts and boos during the first half hour of the game.
And after scoring, Messi was seen pointing to his club crest before raising his hand and making a three-fingered gesture.
He then moved his hand in the first shape before making an obscene gesture.
This was likely to allude to Argentina’s three World Cup victories, including the 2022 victory in which Messi captained his country and the 1986 tournament held in Mexico.
Messi is generally known for being composed on the field and making his football the talk, but he is also capable of attacking opponents.
Reacting on social media, fans were stunned by Messi’s gesture, with one saying: “It was so different from him, I’m in shock, ahaha.”
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Another said: “He’s basically telling Mexican fans that Argentina has three stars and they have zero. This is a new Messi.”
A third said: “An exciting new side to Messi after years of being polite…really cool.”
Another said: “Wild goat.”
Inter won the game 3–2 on penalties after a final score of 2–2.
Messi joins the David-Beckham-owned franchise on a free transfer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.
He scored 34 goals and added 18 assists in 39 games, and led the club to its first trophy with the League Cup in 2023.
Inter Miami will face New York City in its opening game of the MLS season on February 22.