Lionel Messi named most loved player in Barcelona’s history

Argentinian star Lionel Messi received on Wednesday the award reserved for the most beloved player in the history of FC Barcelona, during an event held in the United States, according to Spanish media.

This honor was granted to him at the “Valores del Deporte” (Values of Sport) gala, organized by the Barcelona-based newspaper Sport, CE Report quotes AGERPRES.

During the ceremony, the 38-year-old forward could not hide his emotions, recalling the period he spent at the Catalan club and, with a trembling voice, reiterating his desire to return one day to the city he considers his home.

In the survey conducted by the Spanish newspaper, Lionel Messi clearly surpassed other former Barcelona legends, such as Spaniards Xavi Hernández and Andrés Iniesta, Brazilian Ronaldinho, and Dutchman Johan Cruyff.

Messi won a total of 34 trophies during his time at FC Barcelona, including 10 Spanish league titles and 4 Champions Leagues.

He arrived at the Catalan club at the age of 13 and, after developing as a player at the famous La Masia academy, was promoted to the first team, for which he scored 672 goals in 778 matches in all competitions.

The award ceremony took place in an intimate setting in Florida, where Messi currently lives and plays as captain of Inter Miami.

Before the award was presented, Messi watched a video in which Barcelona fans expressed their affection and gratitude for his achievements in the blaugrana shirt. Upon seeing the footage, the Argentinian was visibly moved, with a lump in his throat and tears in his eyes.

“It is very special because of what it means and where it comes from. We went through so much together, good things and not so good, which is normal in a career of so many years; not everything is wonderful, and you also go through difficult moments. But, well, it’s my home, my place, my people. I would have liked to spend my entire career there without having to go to another club… and I would have played only there, only in Europe,” the Argentinian said, referring to his painful departure from Barça in the summer of 2021, when he left for Paris Saint-Germain.

“I had to leave the club without supporters, because of the pandemic, so it was also an unusual year. But I have many beautiful memories, so thank you very much to everyone in Barcelona. And, of course, I have a very special affection for everyone there,” the world champion added.

“Obviously I will return to Barcelona. I will be at the stadium like any other fan, I will watch the team, the club, and I will simply be a supporter,” he promised.

Last week, Messi took advantage of his trip to Spain, for a training camp with the Argentinian national team, to make a nighttime visit to FC Barcelona’s new stadium, which is preparing to host its first official match this weekend.