Lionel Messi was welcomed to Inter Miami by dining in an exclusive restaurant alongside franchise owner David Beckham, as well as their wives Antonela and Victoria
Lionel Messi and David Beckham dined at an incredible Miami restaurant alongside their wives to celebrate the Argentinian’s impressive start to life in the MLS.
Following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain, Messi signed on the dotted line with Inter Miami, teaming up with David Beckham, who runs the franchise. The seven-time Ballon D’or winner marked his move in style, scoring a trademark free-kick to secure a last-minute victory over Cruz Azul in Leagues Cup.
His first start came just a few days later as he scoring a first-half brace on the way to an impressive 4-0 victory over Atlanta United. Messi and franchise co-owner Beckham were then seen out on the town celebrating.
David Beckham and Victoria Beckham head out for dinner with new Inter Miami star player Leonardo Messi, along with Leo’s wife Antonela Roccuzzo. ( Image: Splash News / Shutterstock 2023)
Lionel Messi joined David Beckham ( Image: Splash News / Shutterstock 2023)
They dined in the lavish Miami restaurant Gekko. They were also joined by new signing Sergio Busquets, and his wife Elena Galera, as well as other co-owner Jorge Mas.
The Japanese-inspired Steakhouse is a popular spot for celebrities in the area, with Messi and Beckham dining with their wives Antonela and Victoria. Gekko specialises in East Asian cuisine, and is best known for its large offering of steaks.
Most notably one 42oz piece, named ‘A5 Bone in Ribeye, Kagoshima, Mizusako’ is priced at an eye-watering $1200 (£940) on the menu. Factor in some sides, and you’re looking at upwards of £1,000 for the top-range item.
The restaurant, based on 8 SE 8th Street in Miami, also offers an extensive range of sushi, cocktails and sharing platters. Inside, it features eye-catching, contemporary decor with Japanese inspiration as the backdrop for its customers.
Ahead of his MLS switch, Messi revealed the lifestyle out in The Sunshine State was a key factor in choosing Inter Miami. “After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barça, it was time to go to the United States League to live football differently,” he said.
Sergio Busquets and his wife, Elena Galera ( Image: Pichichipixx / SplashNews.com)
Antonela Roccuzzo, Leonardo Messi’s wife, arrives with her husband for dinner ( Image: Splash News)
“I want to enjoy more the day to day. Obviously with the same responsibility and desire to want to win and to always do things well. But more calmly.” And he has certainly been enjoying himself after dining in one of the city’s top restaurants.
Following Messi’s debut last Friday, a whole host of A-listers attended the game at theDRV PNK Stadium before also heading out to the Miami eatery. Reality star Kim Kardashian and NBA free agent Tristan Thompson were in attendance at Gekko.
The Japanese-inspired steakhouse opened its doors last summer, with Miami boss Beckham in attendance at the opening alongside Spice Girls wife Victoria. Gekko is owned by by hospitality tycoon David Grutman and Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny.
