The legendary Lionel Messi has achieved everything in his career. Just last year, the captain lifted the elusive World Cup and became a hero to the Argentine people. However, his journey to success has not been without its challenges. In fact, Messi recently opened up about the dark times he and his family faced, stemming from the backlash and animosity he received from his own people.

In two years, the 36-year-old lifted the Copa America and the World Cup, securing pride and glory for his country. But before this momentous achievement, there were 14 long years in which Messi failed to win any title with his national team. During this period, he faced immense criticism and even witnessed his fans burning his jersey in protest.

Lionel Messi dives into the dark times his family had to face

As per ESPN, Lionel Messi recently sat down in an interview to discuss the difficult experiences he went through during those years. He revealed, “I had a bad time, and so did my family. People who love me were very unfair to that group and said everything about me.” The relentless criticism not only affected Messi personally, but also took a toll on his family members.

The 8x Ballon d’Or winner further explained that his family suffered even more than he did. “Having suffered all these years of criticism from the National Team. My mother, my father, my brother, my sister, my nephew who He also lives in Argentina and grew up with all that,” Lionel Messi shared. “Always criticizing and always killing me.”

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However, the situation has changed drastically since Messi’s triumph in the World Cup. Messi expressed his joy, saying, “It’s like a triumph for me to have changed that situation and won over all the people of Argentina. Today 95 or 100 percent of Argentines love me and that is beautiful.”

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These heartfelt admissions shed light on the immense pressure and strain the Inter Miami star has had to face. However, it appears that the worst is now behind him. Now, his Argentinian fans are even paying him an incredible tribute.

Messi to get a neighborhood named after him

The Argentinian fans are still revelling in the moment of their World Cup victory, even after a year. As a tribute to their best player in the tournament, Lionel Messi, one neighborhood in Rafaela, Argentina, has decided to change its name. The neighborhood is currently called Barrio 42, but will soon bear the name of this former Barcelona star.

This gesture serves as a testament to Messi’s incredible achievements and the impact he has had on his nation. It is remarkable how far he has come, from facing criticism from his own countrymen, to having an entire neighborhood named in his honor.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.

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