LIONEL Messi said he’s sure Diego Maradona was cheering on Argentina from “wherever he is” in an emotional open letter about his country’s Copa America triumph.
The dad-of-three, who enjoyed an emotional reunion with his stunning wife Antonela Roccuzzo after Saturday’s 1-0 win over Brazil in the final, dedicated the achievement to the deceased football icon.
Messi also dedicated it to his family, friends and the millions of Argentinians that had to deal with Covid.
He shared the letter on Instagram alongside footage of his goals and assists during the tournament.
Messi, who’s a free agent after his contract with Barcelona expired, wrote: “It was an incredible cup.
“We know that we need to improve many things, but the truth is that the boys gave everything and I couldn’t be prouder of being lucky enough to be captain of this wonderful group.
“I want to dedicate this achievement to my family who always gave me the strength to continue.
“To my friends who I love so much, and to all the people who support us and especially the 45 million Argentinians who suffered so badly with this bloody coronavirus, above all those who suffered it personally.
“And of course this win also goes to Diego who I’m sure was cheering us on where ever he is.
“To be able to continue celebrating, we have to keep on looking after ourselves.
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“Let’s not forget there’s a long way to go still before we can return to normality and we can take advantage of this happiness to gain a bit more strength to fight together against this virus.
“Thank you God for everything you gave me and thank you for having made me Argentinian.”
Argentina won their first major title in 28 years on Saturday with Angel Di Maria’s first-half goal.
It was the first for Messi after a string of World Cup and Copa America final losses.
The 34-year-old is now expected to focus on contract negotiations with Barcelona, the team where he has played all his professional career.
He is said to be losing about £86,000 a day following his departure from the Catalan side.
Barca’s Manager Ronald Koeman says he has “full confidence” in president Joan Laporta’s ability to re-sign their star man despite the club’s financial crisis.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
