Estêvão Willian Swaps Shirts with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez in Thrilling 2–2 Club World Cup Draw

Lionel Messi shared a special moment with rising star Estêvão Willian during Inter Miami's 2–2 draw against Palmeiras at the FIFA Club World Cup, as the two swapped shirts at half-time in a symbolic gesture that quickly captured global attention.

The teenage forward, often referred to as “Messinho” for his playing style, later exchanged jerseys with Luis Suárez after the final whistle.

The match itself was a thrilling contest. Tadeo Allende put Inter Miami ahead in the 16th minute, and Suárez doubled their lead in the 65th minute with a well-taken finish. Palmeiras mounted a late comeback, with Paulinho pulling one back in the 80th minute and Mauricio equalizing just seven minutes later. The 2–2 result ensured both teams progressed to the Round of 16—Palmeiras topping the group on goal difference, and Inter Miami finishing as runners-up. Inter Miami will now face Paris Saint-Germain, while Palmeiras are set to meet Botafogo.

At half-time, cameras caught Messi and Estêvão exchanging shirts in the tunnel. Speaking after the match, the 18-year-old Brazilian said, “At the start of the match, my legs were shaking… Just seeing Messi, I was overcome with emotion. … Sharing the field with him was a huge honor, an unforgettable experience.”

The jersey exchanges were widely interpreted as a symbolic passing of the torch from one generation to the next. Fans and pundits alike praised the moment as a nod to Estêvão’s emerging talent and potential on the world stage.

Estêvão is expected to join Chelsea this summer in a deal reportedly worth £28 million (€34 million), potentially rising to €60 million with performance-related add-ons.