Lionel Messi Inter miamni fc.webp
The Digest:

Lionel Messi has publicly celebrated his former Barcelona teammate Ousmane Dembélé’s 2025 Ballon d’Or victory, reinforcing a personal bond that transcends club rivalries. According to reports, the Inter Miami star left a warm congratulatory message on Dembélé’s social media, highlighting a passing of the torch between two generations of elite attackers.

Key Points:
  • Messi commented on Dembélé’s Instagram post after the award ceremony.
  • He wrote: “Grande Ous. Congratulations, I am so happy for you. You deserve it.”
  • Dembélé thanked Messi personally during his acceptance speech.
  • The French winger credited Messi as a key influence during their time at Barcelona.
  • The two were teammates for four seasons, winning two La Liga titles together.
  • Dembélé is the sixth French player ever to win the Ballon d’Or.
  • Messi’s gesture underscores continued respect among football’s global stars.
The exchange reveals how individual accolades in sport are often woven with threads of mentorship, legacy, and quiet gratitude behind the public celebrations.

Sources: Lionel Messi/Instagram