Messi appointed ambassador to his native Rosario in the world

Leo Messi has been named ambassador for his native capacity worldwide.
The crack of Barca he was "proud" and pointed out that there "probably" will live when he retires from football.

Lionel Messi , who plays for Barcelona , was today appointed Ambassador of his native Rosario in the world, a distinction of the city in Argentina where his "family and friends," and where "probably" will live when he retires from football, the player said.

"It's a great pride for me to receive this award, in my city, my country. I want to thank this recognition in Rosario, in my home, my birthplace, where my people, my family," said Messi during the act in which he was honored by the mayor of the district, Monica Fein.

The front figure of the selection Argentina , welcomed the award and said he was "very happy" with the appointment he received in the act developed in Rosario, Santa Fe province of Argentina, attended by his parents, Celia and George, and several friends.

"It's very nice that people come from outside and want to know the city (300 km from Buenos Aires). I'm always here even though it is not, are my friends, my family and my people and will surely be my home when I leave football, "said 'Lio'.

Messi also took the opportunity to praise the coach Gerardo Martino and wish the "best" in Newell's Old Boys, who joined coach this week and where the striker took his first steps in football.

He is "a very dear person for the club, for the fan. Hopefully things will go well, I wish him well, the player said who the next January 1 will travel to Barcelona to be added to the trainings of the team.

"I hope to keep growing and keep getting things for Barcelona," recent Club World Cup champion, wanted the player.

Messi has just closed a brilliant 2011, culminating with five titles with Barcelona and 59 goals in 70 games, four of them in the selection Albiceleste.

On Tuesday, Lionel Messi won the Olimpia de Oro sports highlight of the year in Argentina, an award he received for the first time in his career. (via MD)