'I had never dreamed about this' - Lionel Messi after life-size statue unveiled in Paraguay

Lionel Messi: (Image Source: Twitter)

Star Argentina footballer Lionel Messi has been felicitated by the South American Football Federation on Monday. The Argentina skipper led his team to a golden journey in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar last year. He led his team to the title victory after a long gap of 36 years. In a special event, the South American Football Federation unveiled a life-size statue of the Argentinian superstar to mark his glory.

His life-size statue will be placed alongside the greats like Diego Maradona and Pele at the museum of the federation. Messi, who was present at the event, held a replica of the World Cup trophy beside his statue during the unveiling ceremony. The ceremony was organized at the headquarters of the South American Football Federation in Luque, Paraguay before the Copa Libertadores draw on Monday.

After the event, Messi interacted with the press and express his gratitude towards the federation. He said, "I had never dreamed or thought about this. My dream was to enjoy what I liked when I was little, to be a professional soccer player, and to do what I always loved in this life. I had a very long road, many decisions, and defeats, but I always looked ahead and wanted to go for a triumph, for a victory. I think that is the most important thing, to fight for your dreams, that everything is possible and to enjoy the game, which is the most beautiful thing there is."

Will Lionel Messi score 100 international goals for Argentina?

Earlier, The Argentinian superstar was honored by the nation after the Argentina Football federation renamed the national team’s training center after Lionel Messi on Saturday. Meanwhile, the 35-year-old superstar is currently on national duty as he is playing friendly matches against Panama and Curacao.

Notably, Messi scored his 800th goal against Panama in a friendly match on Sunday and this was his 99th goal for Argentina too. The 35-year-old superstar will look to score his 100th against Curacao on Tuesday when they play a friendly match.