Messi's Homage to Maradona: A Touching Tribute in Newells Shirt
Messi's Newells Homage
In a heartwarming display of respect, Lionel Messi paid homage to the late Argentine legend Diego Maradona by donning a Newells Old Boys shirt after scoring for Barcelona in November 2020. The shirt, bearing Maradona's iconic number 10, was a poignant tribute to the soccer icon who had passed away earlier that month.
A Personal and Symbolic Gesture
A tribute in a Barcelona or Argentina shirt might have felt impersonal, but wearing the Newells jersey held deep significance for Messi. Newells is the club where Messi began his youth career, and it was also where Maradona played during his brief stint in Argentina in 1993. By wearing the shirt, Messi not only honored Maradona's memory but also paid homage to his own roots.
A Special Connection
Messi's gesture also echoed the legendary number 10 worn by another Messi at Newells. Joaquín Messi, a promising young player in Newells' U20s team, shares the same surname and playing position as his namesake. Like Messi, Joaquín dreams of playing alongside his renowned compatriot someday.
Messi's Discovery
After scoring for Barcelona, Messi surprised the world by revealing the Newells shirt hidden underneath his own jersey. He later explained that he had found the shirt in a bag at home. "I didn't know why it was there," Messi said. "I didn't even remember that I had it."
Messi's touching tribute to Maradona not only showcased his respect for the late icon but also served as a reminder of his own humble beginnings and the enduring legacy of Newells Old Boys.
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