Lionel Messi set social media ablaze on Thursday night when he was spotted shopping at the popular Florida supermarket chain Publix. Accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children, Messi was seen stocking up on items like Frosted Mini-Wheats, Lucky Charms, and Froot Loops for their new Miami home.
Fans quickly began speculating whether Messi indulged in one of Publix’s famed ‘Pub Sub’ sandwiches, particularly their popular chicken tender subs. CBS Sports’ Matteo Bonetti humorously commented, “Messi about to discover the magical qualities of the @Publix chicken tender sub.” The light-hearted banter suggested that the sandwich might be the real reason behind Messi’s move to the USA.
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Messi’s Publix visit turned out to be a financial boon for the company, generating approximately $3.3 million in brand exposure, according to calculations shared by Morning Consult’s Mark J. Burns. The former Barcelona star also posed in front of High Noon, a hard seltzer brand, which further boosted their visibility.
Having arrived in Miami on Tuesday with his family, Messi is expected to be unveiled to Inter Miami fans on Sunday at DRV PNK Stadium. This event will coincide with the arrival of his former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets.
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As of Friday morning, Messi’s transfer to Miami had not yet been officially announced, but it is widely anticipated. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner had previously been linked to a move to Saudi Arabia or a potential return to Barcelona, neither of which came to fruition.
Messi has already been in the spotlight since he arrived in Miami, including an amusing incident where an overeager fan kissed him on the cheek after he left Cafe Prima Pasta with his family. The fan, wearing an Argentina jersey, expressed his admiration, saying, “Leo, I love you man. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for so much.” Messi appeared unfazed by the encounter as he continued to catch up with Antonela and their children.
His much-anticipated debut is scheduled for July 21 against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup.
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