VIDEO: Lionel Messi enjoys heartwarming moment with son Thiago and gives speech to crowd as Inter Miami star misses Vancouver Whitecaps trip

The Herons took the decision not to include former Barcelona stars Messi, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets in their travelling party for a clash with the Vancouver Whitecaps. Said trio were allowed to stay behind at Chase Stadium as Tata Martino’s side went on to claim a 2-1 win.

Get the MLS Season Pass today!

Stream games now

On Friday evening, Messi and Suarez led out two teams of youngsters ahead of the Inter Miami CF Youth International Cup. The Herons’ U12 side, which features Thiago Messi, faced off against in-state rivals Orlando City SC U12 Academy Team.

After escorting the players onto the pitch, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi told the 10,000 fans in attendance: “Welcome. How nice to see the stadium like this for this event. The truth is that it is a pleasure to have you here at home, that we can enjoy this event, this experience. I know the sacrifice parents make every day, taking you to training, to matches, to tournaments like this, but we parents try to do everything possible for them to be happy and football is happiness, among other things, so it is really nice that you are all here. I hope you enjoy this experience, this tournament. Beyond the result, I hope you take great moments of enjoyment with your friends, with you team-mates, with your families and it is an experience that lasts a lifetime. But I’ll let you start because everyone wants the tournament to begin so good luck and all the best, thank you.”

The game in question ended in a 1-1 draw, with the tournament continuing over the weekend. After being given an opportunity to relax and recharge, Messi should be back in action for Inter Miami on Wednesday against Atlanta United – as he counts down the days to Copa America duty with Argentina.