Lionel Messi and family meet Ed Sheeran after concert, Inter Miami superstar shares pictures

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi and his family met English singer Ed Sheeran backstage at a Miami concert, with the Argentine playmaker sharing pictures on social media. With the MLS season over for Inter Miami, the 36-year-old icon is taking some time to unwind with his spouse Antonela and their children - Mateo, Thiago, and Ciro.

According to Daily Mail, Lionel Messi shared an Instagram Story video showing his sons passionately belting out Sheeran's hit "Bad Habits" at the Hard Rock Stadium this past Sunday. Donning a white tee, Messi watched and listened to the youthful renditions of the chart-topping tune.

The legendary playmaker also shared pictures his family took with Ed Sheeran, opting for a caption-less post that has amassed over 12 million likes so far.

The "Shape of You" singer has been touring the United States since May as part of his expansive "The Mathematics Tour."

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What lies ahead for Lionel Messi after the MLS season

The Argentine talisman shepherded his nation to the 2022 World Cup last December. However, this season has been a mixed bag for him at Inter Miami.

Notching up 11 goals in 14 appearances for the Herons, the numbers only tell part of the story. Since joining the Florida-based outfit in mid-July, the squad has had an inconsistent run—clocking in four wins, four losses, and four draws in the MLS.

The vast majority of his goals came from their cup runs, which culminated in a remarkable Leagues Cup win for the club. In the league, however, a winless streak spanning their final six matches meant they failed to qualify for the post-season. It should be noted that Messi was missing for most of these games due to injury.

It hasn't been all gloom and doom for Lionel Messi, though. Earlier this month, he netted twice in Argentina's 2-0 World Cup qualifying triumph over Peru.

Next on the agenda for him is a pair of exhibition matches in China slated for November, marking Inter Miami's first-ever international tour. Argentina has further World Cup qualifiers later in November, but afterward, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner will go on a break before the 2024 MLS season begins.

There were some rumors of a potential return to Barcelona on loan, but Messi has quashed those speculations. The Argentine wizard appears committed to his MLS journey, opting to rest and spend time with his family during his holiday.