Jersey swaps are common in soccer, but a recent twist saw the referee requesting Lionel Messi’s jersey after Inter Miami’s win in the Concacaf Champions Cup against Sporting Kansas City.

During the match, referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava approached Messi for his jersey. After the match, Messi obliged the request once he got to the changing room.

This unusual action highlights Messi’s significant influence in Major League Soccer (MLS), as he has garnered attention not only from players but also match officials.

Upcoming for Inter Miami is their regular season opener against New York City FC, scheduled for Saturday.