Starstruck Inter Miami Star Got Lionel Messi’s Autograph Tattooed on Him, Video

• Inter Miami Academy goalkeeper Francisco Ranieri got Lionel Messi’s autograph tattooed on him
• The goalkeeper met Messi during one of Argentina’s training tours amid the 2022 FIFA World Cup
• Inter Miami has announced the veteran will be joining the Major League Soccer club this summer

Lionel Messi has gained immense followership in the United States even before agreeing to join Major League Soccer side, Inter Miami this summer.

The Argentine superstar granted one of the wishes of Inter Miami academy player, Francisco Ranieri, when both met during Argentina’s preparation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The Argentina national team had set up camp in Miami where they played Honduras, with record appearance-maker, Messi scoring twice including a superb chip, The Sun reports.

Ranieri, who was starstruck after meeting with the six-time Ballon d’Or winner, got a tattoo of the veteran's autograph just hours after his idol had signed his arm.

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The Inter Miami academy goalkeeper, who also hails from Argentina, would later describe his encounter with the former Barcelona star as the best day of his life.

Messi wears Miami's number 10

Meanwhile, Messi could get his famous number 10 shirt when he is finally unveiled as an Inter Miami player, after completing his transfer to the MLS side from Paris Saint-Germain, Sport Bible reports.

When the multiple-time Ballon d’Or winner made the switch to Ligue 1, he was offered the number 10 shirt but declined as it was being worn by Neymar, choosing to wear the number 30 instead.

However, the number 10 shirt is currently vacant at Inter Miami, and it is expected the Argentine veteran will be offered his preferred shirt number when he finalises his move to the US league.

Messi’s debut for Inter Miami

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on when Messi will feature for Inter Miami, who are sitting at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference after 16 matches.

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This poor run of form is said to be the reason why franchise owner, David Beckham decided to sack Phil Neville and bring the Argentine veteran on board.

Messi will reportedly be able to officially register as a player for Inter Miami on July 5, as that is when the league's next transfer window officially opens.