Miami star writes latest chapter in Mexico’s Messi story

When Lionel Messi calls, it’s pretty hard to say no. That’s exactly what happened with Germán Berterame, who left Monterrey to join Inter Miami in late January. In doing so, the striker has made a bit of history for Mexico as the sixth Mexican player ever to share a locker room with the Argentine legend.

Which Mexicans has Messi played with?

Throughout his career, Messi has played for three clubs. At Barcelona and Inter Miami he’s crossed paths with several Mexican players, the most famous example being Rafael Márquez.

From 2004 to 2010, Messi and Márquez were teammates at Barça. They appeared together in 100 matches and won 11 trophies, forming part of a team that forever changed the sport. Their relationship was always built on mutual respect - despite the fact that the “Káiser” once revealed he clashed with Messi in training to the point that Pep Guardiola had to step in.

Giovani dos Santos is the second case. “Gio” and Messi were Barcelona teammates during the 2007-08 season, sharing the field in 24 games before the Mexican attacker left for Tottenham Hotspur. His brother, Jonathan dos Santos, also had the privilege of sharing a locker room with Messi, though he never actually played alongside him.

Messi’s Miami Mexicans

At Inter Miami, Messi has already crossed paths with three Mexican players. The first was Victor Ulloa, who was with the MLS club from 2020 to 2023 - the year Messi arrived. Goalkeeper William Yarbrough became the second when he joined the reigning MLS champions for the 2025 season.

Now Berterame joins that list. The Mexican‑naturalized striker left Monterrey to team up with Messi in Florida - and he didn’t take long to make his mark, scoring his first goal for the club off an assist from the Argentine.

Berterame in the hunt for a 2026 World Cup spot

Berterame is battling for a place on Mexico’s final roster for the 2026 World Cup. The 27‑year‑old forward is considered one of the national team’s strongest attacking options, alongside Raúl Jiménez and Armando “La Hormiga” González.

The competition for a spot under head coach Javier Aguirre is tight. At that position, Mexico has Jiménez, Berterame, González, and Santiago Giménez all vying for limited spots.

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