Barcelona youth team invited to participate in Lionel Messi’s new tournament – Messi Cup | OneFootball

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi continues to expand his influence beyond the pitch. The Argentine has officially announced the creation of the Messi Cup, an international under-16 tournament that will hold its first edition in Miami from 9 to 14 December 2025.

The event, driven by his production company 525 Rosario, will bring together some of the most prestigious clubs in world football, with FC Barcelona among the guests of honour.

The competition has a clear ambition: to become a global benchmark in youth football. More than just a tournament, the Messi Cup aims to connect generations, unite sport and culture, and provide young talents with an international development platform.

Announcing the tournament on his social media, Messi wrote: “Thrilled to finally share this with you — this December, Miami will host a very special youth football tournament featuring some of the top clubs from around the world.

“The future of the game will be on full display, and it’s more than just matches — we’ve got an incredible few days planned with lots of other exciting activities. This is about the next generation. Hope you like it! This is the #MessiCup.”

According to the organisers, the goal is to “set a new standard in youth football, merging competition, innovation, and community.”

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Tournament format

The eight participating teams will include Inter Miami CF, FC Barcelona, Manchester City, River Plate, Inter Milan, Newell’s Old Boys, Atletico Madrid, and Chelsea FC — all renowned for their world-class academies.

Over six days, teams will play 18 matches across various venues in Miami, with Inter Miami CF’s Chase Stadium serving as the main location.

The format will divide the clubs into two groups of four, followed by a group stage, play-offs, and a final, which will determine the inaugural champion of the tournament.

Barcelona’s Meaningful Presence

For Barcelona, the invitation carries symbolic and emotional significance. The inclusion of the club where Messi grew up and became a legend is no coincidence.

It is a tribute to La Masia’s youth development model, the very system that shaped Messi’s early career and continues to set the standard in world football – now represented by emerging stars like Lamine Yamal.

“The tournament is the meeting point between today’s football and tomorrow’s players,” said Tim Pastore, CEO of 525 Rosario. “We want to celebrate talent, culture, and community, creating bonds that endure beyond the pitch.”

Source: SPORT