Despite the fact that Houston Dynamo defender Franco Escobar clearly looks up to Lionel Messi, it is currently unknown whether or not the two countrymen will compete against one another in the final of the US Open Cup.

Originating in the city of Rosario, Argentina Escobar, just like Messi, followed in the footsteps of the striker at Newell’s Old Boys when he was a young player. After Argentina’s victory in the World Cup last December, Escobar got a big tattoo of Messi.

Messi is depicted giving the World Cup trophy a passionate kiss in the ultra-detailed ink, which also includes three stars to represent Argentina’s three victories at the World Cup.

Escobar discussed the inspiration behind his tattoo before Wednesday’s Open Cup final match between Houston and Inter Miami. The match was scheduled to take place in Miami.

Franco Escobar has a massive tattoo of Lionel Messi kissing the World Cup trophy

According to Escobar, who gave an interview to KHOU 11, “He just instills a lot of pride to be Argentinian gives a lot of hope to the country.” “And you know, [Messi] provides a great deal of hope for me,” Messi said.

Escobar revealed to the media outlet that the creation of the artwork took a total of four hours. He also stated that he has been in communication with a few Miami coaches on the possibility of obtaining Messi’s shirt after the game.

Messi, who is 28 years old, was lauded by the player after Argentina won the World Cup for the first time since 1986 thanks to Messi’s contributions.

After France’s loss in the championship match, he sent a message on Instagram that said, “FOOTBALL OWED YOU AND IT WAS GIVEN TO YOU THANK YOU VERY MUCH.”

On the other hand, Escobar may never get the opportunity to compete against his hero.

Because Messi is battling with a muscle injury at the moment, he was absent from Tuesday’s practice with the rest of his Inter Miami colleagues and teammates.

Lionel Messi will reportedly not start for Inter Miami in the US Open Cup final

Instead, Messi was photographed at Inter’s DRV PNK Stadium base talking on the phone while dressed normally.

Last week, during Miami’s 4-0 victory against Toronto FC, he was taken out of the game after 37 minutes and did not play in the match against Orlando City on Sunday.

According to a report from TyC Sports (via MLS Moves), Lionel Messi’s role with Miami FC, where he is attempting to win his second trophy, will be limited to that of a substitute at most.

In the past, he guided the club to victory in the Leagues Cup under his leadership.