Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez have shared the pitch for some of football’s most iconic moments. At Barcelona, they formed two-thirds of the legendary attacking trio MSN, alongside Neymar, terrorizing defenses across Europe and winning every major title. Later, their careers took them to Inter Miami, where they reunited in a new chapter that brought stardom and attention to Major League Soccer. Now, however, their partnership extends beyond the field of play.
In a surprising yet exciting announcement, Luis Suárez revealed on his official X account (formerly Twitter) that he and Messi had launched a football club together. The team, named Deportivo LSM, will compete in Uruguay’s fourth division. The name is a direct nod to their bond: “LSM” merges the initials of both stars, symbolizing not only friendship but also a joint vision for their legacy in football. This move represents more than an investment. For Messi and Suárez, it is an opportunity to give back to the sport that defined their lives, support grassroots football, and create a structure where young players can dream of following in their footsteps.
Some may wonder why Suárez and Messi chose Uruguay’s fourth division for their venture. The decision, however, reflects both practicality and philosophy. Suárez, a national icon in Uruguay, has always been connected deeply with his homeland. His roots in Montevideo and his journey from Nacional’s academy to European stardom highlight the importance of giving back to the country that produced him. Starting a club in Uruguay allows him to invest directly in local talent development. Messi’s involvement may seem surprising at first, but his bond with Suárez transcends geography. The two have been close friends for over a decade, their families often vacationing together, and their on-field chemistry blossoming into personal trust. Partnering in a football project is a natural extension of that relationship.
By entering the Uruguayan system at the fourth division, Deportivo LSM can grow organically. Instead of buying their way into the top levels, Messi and Suárez appear intent on building from the ground up. This approach mirrors the values of South American football, where success is often defined by hard work, community support, and the rise of unknown talents into stars. For the local football ecosystem, the presence of Deportivo LSM could be transformative.
The project also brings global attention to Uruguay’s lower leagues, which are often overshadowed by the glamour of Europe and South America’s top divisions.Both players remain active professionals with Inter Miami, where their numbers speak for themselves. Since arriving in 2023, Messi has played 57 matches for the club, scoring 45 goals and providing 21 assists. His presence revolutionized the profile of MLS, bringing in global audiences and turning Inter Miami into one of the world’s most-watched football projects. Suárez followed in January 2024, and quickly established himself as a reliable goalscorer and creator. In 56 matches, he netted 30 goals and assisted 20 more. Together, they have revived the joy of playing side by side, reminding fans of their golden years in Europe.
Now, their focus is expanding beyond their own statistics. Deportivo LSM gives them a platform to influence the sport in new ways. Rather than only entertaining fans, they are now shaping the pathways for future players. Their reputations ensure that the project will attract sponsors, coaches, and young athletes eager to be associated with such icons.In time, Deportivo LSM could grow into more than just a fourth-division club. With the ambition and resources of its founders, it has the potential to climb the ranks of Uruguayan football, perhaps even entering continental competitions like the Copa Libertadores one day.
The announcement of Deportivo LSM has added another dimension to one of football’s greatest friendships. Messi and Suárez, once teammates at Barcelona and now at Inter Miami, are proving that their connection can transcend the boundaries of the pitch. By founding a club together in Uruguay, they are cementing their legacy as not only players but also visionaries for the future of the sport.
For fans, this story is inspiring because it captures the essence of football: friendship, community, ambition, and love for the game. For young players in Uruguay, Deportivo LSM offers hope and opportunity. And for Messi and Suárez themselves, it is a way to remain connected to the sport even after their playing days end. The football world will watch closely to see how this project unfolds. One thing is certain: when Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez put their names on something, the eyes of millions will follow. Deportivo LSM may begin in Uruguay’s fourth division, but its story could echo far beyond.
