Update: Another picture greatly shows off Messi's Nike socks he is wearing in Barca training. As noted by many of our fans, this is nothing very special.
Is Lionel Messi set to join Nike? At least a picture shows the Argentinian wearing something that indicates that, but only at very first glance...
Lionel Messi Spotted With Special Nike Socks In Barcelona Training
The picture of Lionel Messi is not photoshoped but shows the Argentinian just without boots and Nike socks. However, his socks are not the usual ones that Barca players wear but Nike socks with an "exploded" Swoosh on the usually hidden part.
However, it is likely that Messi just prefers those Nike socks.
A closer look reveals that Messi's socks also feature a small Swoosh on the front area - so it is almost unremarkable that he is using Nike socks, at least when he is wearing his Nemeziz boots.
Jordi Alba, meanwhile, used standard Nike socks with his Adidas Copa football boots.
Interestingly, many other Barca players are wearing those special socks from Austrian company TapeDesign. This would be usually not allowed in terms of contract, but the big brands alllow their players to wear custom socks as those anti-slip socks are just too popular (and TapeDesign & Co not really a competitor on eye level with the big brands).
Meanwhile, in Torino, Cristiano Ronaldo used standard Adidas socks with his (old) Nike Mercurial Superfly VI boots in Juventus training.
Cristiano Ronaldo Returns To Training In Old Nike Mercurial Boots
When playing for the Argentine national football team, who are also sponsored by Adidas, Messi can wear Adidas socks.
What do you think of Messi opting for Nike socks with the logo not really visible when having shoes on? Do you think other players will follow? Share your thoughts in the comments below and check out Football Boots DB for more about Messi's boots.