Lionel Messi continues to be sensational for Inter Miami. The forward has already netted eight goals in just five matches causing plenty of elation among fans. Even his celebrations are making a splash on social media, as his assortment of tributes to Marvel superheroes has led to plenty of speculation. It was initially believed that the reason behind the celebrations had to do with a special gesture for his son. But a new theory suggests that it could actually be a commercial ploy.
The 35-year-old’s pattern of Marvel-themed celebrations began with an ode to Thor against Atlanta United. After grabbing his goal, the Argentine held up his hand and clenched his fist. It was later revealed that Messi was mimicking the Asgardian god’s stance in summoning his trusty weapon, Mjolnir. During his very next game against Orlando, Messi celebrated by crossing his arms and creating an ‘x’. This, of course, was his iteration of the famous ‘Wakanda Forever’ gesture associated with Black Panther.
Messi going through the Marvel Universe 🔥 pic.twitter.com/IxYgm9Dgp3
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 12, 2023
His most recent Marvel-inspired celebration came against Charlotte, with the Argentine imitating Spiderman’s web-shooting gesture. Needless to say, there’s a distinct theme behind all these celebrations. And fans online are claiming to have narrowed down the reason behind them. As per online speculation, the celebrations serve to promote the MLS‘s collaboration with Adidas and Marvel.
🚨‼️ Exposed: Messi’s Marvel celebrations
They think they can fool us in the name
of children, while in reality he’s being paid billions of dollars 💵 to do these Marvel celebrations. pic.twitter.com/364jlWr7qN— Akın (@ProudFede) August 12, 2023
Announced in June, the collaboration will play out in three phases, adding a bit of superhero flair to the league’s merchandise. The first product of this partnership was the special ball created for MLS All-star’s match against Arsenal. And the upcoming drop will see a slew of Avengers-inspired pre-match tops. Given this, the idea that Messi has been tasked with promoting the collaboration is certainly worth considering.
Lionel Messi’s son was the reason behind his
Thor-themed celebration
Despite doubts regarding his celebrations, Messi’s iteration of Thor’s iconic gesture was dedicated to his son, Thiago. The 10-year-old is reportedly a massive Marvel fan, with a special affinity for the God of thunder. As such, the forward decided to try his hand at mimicking the superhero.
The meaning behind Messi’s celebration:
Thiago Messi’s favourite superhero is Marvel character Thor and his dad wanted to pay homage to the Asgardian god of thunder by holding his out hand expectantly for the hammer to arrive. 🔨 https://t.co/cRtG8CZWXV
— Who Knows Wins (@whoknowswins) July 28, 2023
His attempt led to delightful reactions from his children seated in the stands, which certainly made it worthwhile for the father of three. Messi’s wife, Antonella Rocuzzo, also confirmed that the Argentine was paying homage to Thor through an Instagram story.