Lionel Messi Debuts 'Merlin' Celebration in First Inter Miami Start

• Lionel Messi has gotten football fans buzzing after his goal celebration against Atlanta United
• The new Inter Miami signing produced a 5-star performance as they defeated the visitors 4-0
• After scoring his second goal of the match, the veteran produced a Merlin-esque celebration

Lionel Messi produced a special celebration after his second goal in Inter Miami’s 4-0 win over Atlanta United in the Leagues Cup.

The 19,100-capacity DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was filled to the brim as fans stormed the venue to see the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner make his first start for the club.

It took the Argentine just 8 minutes before scoring and he completed his brace by the 22nd minute.

Robert Taylor made it three just before half-time and scored his second goal in the 53rd minute as Inter Miami won the tie 4-0.

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However, one of the major talking points of the encounter was Messi’s new celebration. Fans have taken to social media to liken it to that of Merlin's magical gesture.

About Merlin and Messi

Rotten Tomatoes reports that Merlin is an action-packed fantasy drama revisiting the saga of King Arthur and his wizard, Merlin, by focusing on the two characters when they were ambitious young men struggling to understand their destinies.

The cover of the movie captured Merlin’s stretched hand, and Messi is believed to have reproduced that after his second goal against Atlanta United.

Reactions to Messi's goal celebration

Fans have had mixed reactions over the new Messi celebration:

One said:

“Messi bringing the heat to Inter Miami FC with a brand-new celebration.”

Another added:

“Took less than an hour of play to unleash the Kraken.”

A fan wrote:

“Messi reminding us of Merlin. They both have one thing in common.”

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Superstars pack DRV PNK Stadium

Sports Brief also reported on American music superstars including Diddy, DJ Khaled, and Camila Cabello watching Messi make his first start for Inter Miami.

The Argentine veteran and his former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets, both recently signed deals that will keep them at the MLS club until 2025.

Making his first start for Miami in a Leagues Cup game against Atlanta United, American celebrities and entertainers were spotted watching the superstar.