Lionel Messi and Inter Miami welcomed to the White House by Donald Trump

MEGA STARS of world football, Lionel Messi, alongside his Inter Miami teammates, paid a historic visit to the White House. The visit was an official invitation from United States President Donald Trump to celebrate the club’s first MLS Cup triumph. Inter Miami clinched the MLS title in December. Ahead of their away match against D.C. United in Washington on Saturday, the club, owned by English legend David Beckham, took the opportunity to honour the state visit. During the welcome ceremony, President Trump gave special praise to Lionel Messi. Trump revealed that his youngest son, Barron, is a big fan of the Argentina captain. ‘My son [Barron] asked, “Dad, do you know who will be here today?” I replied, “No, I’m busy with a lot of things.” He said, “Messi!” He is a big fan of yours. He considers you an extraordinary person, and I think you met him briefly,’ Trump told the press. Not only did he mention his son’s admiration, Trump also lauded Messi’s decision to pursue a career in the United States amid offers from around the world. ‘Leo has won his 47th trophy in an extraordinary career, the most in history. You could go anywhere in the world, for any team, and you chose Miami. I just want to thank you for taking us all along on this journey,’ he added. Messi, now 38, has reaffirmed his long-term commitment to Inter Miami by signing a contract extension through 2028 in October. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward also made history in MLS by becoming the first player to win the MVP award in two consecutive seasons. The White House visit symbolises the success of football’s expansion in the United States, with Inter Miami now a rising force domestically and internationally. (BBC/Z-2)