Lionel Messi Reacts Emotionally to Being Honoured With Statue Next to Maradona and Pele

• Lionel Messi was emotional after he was honoured with a statue by CONMEBOL on Monday
• The Argentine was placed alongside his compatriot Diego Maradona and Brazil legend Pele
• Messi led La Albiceleste to their first World Cup trophy in 35 years after they won last year

Lionel Messi has revealed that he is fulfilled after having a statue of him erected alongside football legends, Pele and Diego Maradona by CONMEBOL.

The 35-year-old forward cemented his place in Argentina’s history after he guided the South American giants to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar.

Messi disclosed that he was eternally grateful to God for winning the World Cup, which was the only trophy missing from his cabinet prior to the 2022 tournament, Sportskeeda reports.

“I'm fulfilled with this; it was what I was missing. Thank God I got everything in football. I keep these cups in the museum at home. Thanks to CONMEBOL for this tribute to us.”

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Messi returned to the pitch for the first time with Argentina in the international friendly game against Panama, where he scored an amazing free kick to reach a landmark of 800 career goals.

Laporta, Messi set for meeting

Meanwhile, Barcelona president, Joan Laporta is set to meet with Messi’s representatives in the next few days to finalise the tribute the club have been planning for the attacker, Barca Universal reports.

There has been speculation surrounding the Argentine's future as rumours suggest he could be interested in a return to La Blaugrana when his current Paris Saint-Germain contract expires in the summer.

However, Barcelona have however being told by La Liga authorities to reduce their salary limit by €200 million - effectively losing players - before they can seal a deal for the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.

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Messi honoured by his country

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Argentina's training centre would be named after Messi after his success at the World Cup last year.

The South American country's FA president made the announcement and the veteran reacted to this individual honour on social media.

Messi played a pivotal role in La Albiceleste's triumph in Qatar, receiving the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player with seven goals.