LIONEL MESSI was given a hero’s welcome as he returned to his boyhood town following his nation’s World Cup win.
The 35-year-old fired Argentina to glory in Qatar and finally managed to get his hands on the one trophy to elude him in his illustrious career.
Following the dramatic final victory over France, the Argentina squad flew back to Buenos Aires to celebrate.
While in his homeland, Messi decided to visit his home in nearby city Rosario.
The World Cup hero arrived in a car driven by his wife Antonela Roccuzzo.
Hundreds of fans surrounded the car, with many flocking to his doorstep trying to get a glimpse – and a photo – of the legend as he pulled into his garage.
READ MORE WORLD CUP NEWS
Security walked alongside the vehicle preventing any fans blocking his entrance.
Messi could be seen in the passenger seat of the Audi, smiling at the supporters chanting “champion” at him.
The wild scenes continue in Argentina after their World Cup success.
Yesterday, Messi and Co went on a bus parade around the capital city.
Most read in Football
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
Thousands gathered around the Obelisk monument in Buenos Aires lining the bus route hoping to see the nation’s new legends.
Fans were seen climbing onto street lights, bridges, cars and tall buildings hoping to get a better view of the mass party.
The players’ time on the open-top bus was cut short due to there being too many people on the streets for them to drive through.
They were then taken by helicopter above the city as it circled low so all could see.
And they could do it all again in 2026 with Messi NOT planning to retire from international duty after all.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
