Mateo Messi, Lionel Messi’s second son, is making headlines of his own after helping lead an Inter Miami Academy team to victory at the 2026 Copa Naples. The youngster was seen celebrating with the trophy after the tournament, with a video shared by Spanish publication Marca showing Mateo proudly posing with the “Champion” cup. Mateo has been developing his football skills within Inter Miami’s youth system and has previously attracted attention for his competitive nature and performances on the pitch.

His latest achievement has added to growing interest in the next generation of the Messi family. While comparisons with his legendary father are inevitable, Mateo is still at the beginning of his own football journey. The Copa Naples was held at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida, on September 5 and 6, with Inter Miami Academy teams competing across multiple youth age groups. Mateo’s title comes shortly after his father Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football following an extraordinary 21 year career with Argentina. Messi remains active at club level with Inter Miami.

In his latest MLS appearance, he provided an assist in Miami’s 2-2 draw against Atlanta United, continuing his remarkable form even after stepping away from international duty. Mateo, who turns 11 on September 11, is the second of Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo’s three sons. His older brother Thiago is also involved in football, while younger brother Ciro is the youngest of the family. For now, the Naples Cup represents another early milestone rather than a prediction of what lies ahead. But with a trophy already in his hands and a growing presence in Inter Miami’s youth setup, Mateo is certainly beginning to create a football story of his own.