'Ultimate professional, player and person' - David Beckham hails Lionel Messi as 'the greatest' in heartfelt birthday wish to 'mi amigo'

David Beckham has sent a touching message to Lionel Messi as the Inter Miami star celebrates his 38th birthday.

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WHAT HAPPENED?
Messi is celebrating his 38th birthday and remains one of the greatest players in the world despite heading towards the end of his career. The legendary Argentine is currently aiming for more silverware at the Club World Cup with Inter Miami and has helped his side progress to the knockout stages of the tournament.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Beckham helped lure Messi to Inter Miami in 2023 and has since seen the former Barcelona star deliver a League Cup title and the MLS Supporter's Shield for his club. The former England captain has regularly praised the Argentina international and has now taken time out to wish him a special birthday message.
WHAT BECKHAM SAID
He posted on Instagram: "Happy birthday to the greatest. Have the best day to the ultimate professional, player & person... Feliz cumpleaños mi amigo. @leomessi."

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WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI?
Messi celebrates his birthday just a day after Inter Miami booked their spot in the last 16 of the Club World Cup. Inter Miami now go on to play Messi's former team PSG in the next round.

WHAT HAPPENED?