The Unexpected Beginnings

It’s not every day that a football fan’s journey begins with a global superstar and ends with a passion for a lower-league club. For Ivo Soboleosky, a 10-year-old from Rosario, Argentina, this was precisely the case. His admiration for Lionel Messi, who hails from the same city, set him on a path that would eventually lead to an unwavering support for Bradford City.

The Turning Point

In 2015, Soboleosky tuned in to watch Bradford City’s remarkable 4-2 FA Cup victory over Chelsea, managed by Jose Mourinho. Mourinho’s history of clashes with Messi’s Barcelona had already made him a figure of disdain for Soboleosky. Witnessing a third-division team triumph over a Premier League giant was electrifying. "I was buzzing," Soboleosky recalled. "I wanted to know more about them."

Building a Connection

From that moment, Soboleosky began following Bradford City’s results, their position in the league table, and eventually started paying to watch their matches live. Over the years, he built a significant following of City fans on social media. His dedication culminated in his first visit to West Yorkshire in May 2022 to watch the team play.

The Good Luck Charm

Soboleosky’s presence seemed to bring good fortune to the team. During his three-month stay from December to March, Bradford City went on a club-record run of home wins. Fans began calling him the "good luck charm." When he returned to South America, the team’s form dipped, prompting fans to launch a GoFundMe campaign to bring him back for the final games of the season.

A Promising Future

As Bradford City prepares to face Fleetwood Town in a crucial match that could secure their promotion to League One, Soboleosky is confident in the team’s chances. "I hope the ground is going to rock on Saturday," he said. "We need to play our part and make Fleetwood feel that pressure."

A Lifelong Commitment

Despite the ups and downs Bradford City has faced over the years, including relegation to League Two in 2018-19, Soboleosky’s passion for the club remains steadfast. "It’s my team now," he said. "The first time I went to Valley Parade was magical. It’s very special."

Conclusion

Soboleosky’s journey from a Messi fan to a devoted Bradford City supporter is a testament to the unpredictable and profound connections football can create. As he stands with the Bantams in their quest for promotion, his story continues to inspire fans around the world.