Argentina’s training center has been renamed after talismanic captain Lionel Messi in recognition of his World Cup heroism and star-studded career, the national football association (AFA) announced on Saturday. Buenos Aires’
Casa de Ezeiza, which will host national team games, will now be known as Lionel Andres Messi, “in homage to the best footballer in the world,” tweeted AFA President Claudio Tapia.
“Welcome to the world champions,” said Tapia at the inauguration ceremony, which was attended by current and former Argentine players.
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Messi ended Argentina’s 36-year wait for the World Cup by emulating the late Diego Maradona as he led them to victory in Qatar in a thrilling final against France in December.
“I am very happy.This honor is very, very special,” said the 35-year-old Messi after unveiling a plaque with his name on it. “To know that his name will be Lionel Andres Messi is a very beautiful career in which he was voted the best player in the world seven times and won the Copa America, 11 league titles and four Champions League titles, among other major accolades associated with the club with Paris St Germain.
