Argentina has paid tribute to Lionel Messi’s World Cup heroics by renaming their national team’s training facility in Buenos Aires after their star captain.
The facility, formerly known as Casa de Ezeiza, will now be called Lionel Andres Messi.
The president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), Chiqui Tapia, confirmed the news on Saturday, thanking all those who supported the decision.
“We lived a historic day in our Casa de Ezeiza, which from today will be renamed Lionel Andres Messi, in homage to the best player in the world,” Tapia tweeted.
“I want to thank all the managers, players, and employees of @afa for having been with us.”
Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, following in the footsteps of the late Diego Maradona, and secured their third world title, and first since 1986.
Messi expressed his gratitude on Instagram, stating that it was one of the nicest recognitions he has ever received.
“This recognition is one of the nicest I’ve ever received,” Messi posted on Instagram. “A great honour, thank you very much!!!”
The 35-year-old footballer also recently scored his 800th career goal in Argentina’s 2-0 friendly win over Panama, bringing him closer to his 100th international goal for his country.