Lionel Messi’s latest addition to his personal collection of silverware is being named “the most loved player in Barcelona’s history.”
The award was part of Valores Del Deporte gala. Recognitions were handed out while Messi was representing Argentina during the November international action. Upon his return to Miami, traveled to the U.S. to personally give Messi the award, prompting an emotional reaction from the Barcelona legend.
“It’s very special, for what it means and from where it’s coming from [Barcelona fans],” Messi said. “The truth is we’ve been through so many things, good and not so good as well, because it’s normal than in a career of so many years not everything is pretty and you go through tough times.
“But it’s my home, my place, my people. I would’ve liked doing my whole career there without having to leave to another club. Unfortunately, things happened in a different way. But still, I have a lot of beautiful memories.”
Messi left Barcelona in the summer of 2021, having played his final season with the club at an empty Camp Nou because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The greatest player in Barcelona history was not able to properly bid farewell to Blaugrana supporters, but it’s something he intends to change.
