LIONEL MESSI left rival fans stunned as he trolled them 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 clash came against Mexican giants Club America in Las Vegas.
The Argentine netted his side’s opener in the 34th minute by heading home from close range to level the score at 1-1.
However, he appeared to aim a dig at fans of Club America after being the subject of taunts and boos during the first half an hour of the game.
And after scoring Messi was seen pointing to his club crest before holding his hand up and gesturing with three fingers up.
He then followed this up by moving his hand into what looked a zero shape.
This was likely to indicate Argentina‘s three World Cup triumphs – including the 2022 victory in which Messi captained his nation and the 1986 tournament hosted in Mexico – compared to the Mexico’s tally of none.
Messi is generally known for being reserved on the pitch and letting his football do the talking, but is more than capable of a vicious dig towards rivals.
Reacting on social media, fans were left stunned by Messi’s gesture, claiming it left his rival supporters “traumatised”.
One said: “That was so unlike him LOL I’m in shock ahahah.”
A second said: “He’s actually telling Mexican fans that Argentina has three stars and they have zero. This is a new Messi.
A third added: “New exciting side of Messi after years of being humble…kind of cool actually.”
Another said: “Savage GOAT.”
Inter went on to win the game 3-2 on penalties after a final score of 2-2.
Messi joined the David-Beckham-owned franchise in 2023 on a free transfer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.
He has scored 34 goals and added 18 assists in 39 games, and guided the club to its first-ever trophy with the Leagues Cup in 2023.
Inter Miami will take on New York City in their opening game of the MLS season on February 22.
