Deen got dream job. But what is a dream job for a journalist today?

Safid Deen announced a career shift on LinkedIn this Wednesday: he's taking on a new role as Lionel Messi's personal journalist at USA Today. While this might seem unusual, it's not out of character for this influential American magazine. The move can be looked at from two angles. First, it speaks volumes about Messi's significance and impact in America (and the world). Second, it hints at the challenges Deen might face.

Same as "Taylor" and "Beyonce" colleagues, right?

Two of music’s biggest stars have a third party entering their atmosphere in Lionel Messi. USA Today’s Sports Media Group announced Wednesday that the Argentine soccer star will have his beat writer dedicated to covering him, joining a club previously occupied by Swift and Beyoncé.

Messi is global phenomen, no doubt

This specialized coverage of Messi comes after his first (partial) season in Major League Soccer, which was a boon for the league and Inter Miami CF—and it’s already paying dividends for 2024 and beyond, as the club announced it had sold out its available season tickets for the ’24 MLS season.

Undoubtedly, this showcases just how dedicated the magazine is to details, considering the sheer volume of information and events surrounding arguably the most famous athlete globally. Or one of the two most famous, depending on who you ask. Yet, Deen will encounter a unique challenge. Messi generally doesn't grant individual interviews and isn't overly available at media conferences. Initially, Deen's role may involve gathering information about Messi, likely through online sources or attempts to get close to people who know the famous Argentine player better.

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_{Will Deen meet Messi for an interview}

Moreover, Deen resides in Florida, where Inter Miami is based, putting him closer to individuals around Messi. However, here's the latest paradox in the world of media and sports: one athlete rightfully earns a journalist dedicated to tracking his career and life, a rarity. Yet, it's entirely possible that Deen may never even meet Messi in person. It's an intriguing twist in the evolving relationship between sports and media, highlighting the unique dynamics surrounding one of the world's most iconic athletes.

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