Love Lionel? Then Hard Rock International has the sandwich for you. The pop-culture inspired hotel brand has teamed up with arguably the world’s greatest-ever soccer player, Lionel Messi, to launch a namesake menu item – the Messi Chicken Sandwich, “Made For You by Leo Messi.”

The new “Milanese style” Chicken Sandwich is timed to Messi’s transfer to Miami in the North American Major League Soccer (representing the biggest addition to the league since Pele).

Now, foodies – and football fans – around the world can order the Messi Chicken Sandwich at participating Hard Rock Café locations and Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, including South Florida’s iconic Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in Messi’s new neighbourhood.

“I’m thrilled to bring the flavours of my home country to the world with the launch of my very own Chicken Sandwich, inspired by one of my favourite dishes, the Milanesa,” said the Argentinian and international icon – and recent World Cup champion – Messi. “I can’t wait for my fans all over the world to get a taste of one of my childhood favourites that still makes me feel at home, wherever in the world I am.”

The Messi Chicken Sandwich is inspired by Messi’s love of Milanese, an Argentinean staple that features a crispy Milanese-style chicken breast topped with melted provolone cheese and an herbed aioli. Paired with fresh tomatoes and arugula, the sandwich is served on a toasted artisan bun.

“Leo Messi is not just one of the greatest athletes and cultural icons on the planet, he’s also an ambassador who aligns very closely with our values as an organization,” said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International. “We are extremely honoured to partner with someone who embodies the champion and winning spirit in all facets of his professional and personal life, and we look forward to welcoming him to the US as part of our extended Hard Rock family.”