In his home nation of Argentina, Lionel Messi is revered as a hero. It comes as no surprise then, that his wedding would be one of the biggest Latin American events of the decade.
The Argentine will wed his childhood sweetheart, Antonella Roccuzzo, later this month in his hometown of Rozario.
Messi’s agents have confirmed that the wedding will take place on 30 June, a week after the Barcelona star’s birthday.
The couple has been dating since 2008, and have two sons – 4-year-old Thiago, and 21-month-old Mateo.
Who All Are Invited?
According to Spanish magazine Sport.es, Messi has invited all of his 21 Barcelona teammates including Luis Suarez, Ivan Rakitic, Sergio Busquets and Neymar, as well as former captain Xavi Hernandez.
Current captain Andres Iniesta has however told Messi that he will not be able to attend the ceremony. According to Goal.com, Gerard Pique will also be a big missing name, due to a feud between his wife Shakira, and Messi’s wife to be.
Sport.es also reported that all the kit-men, physiotherapists, masseurs, and doctors who work with the team, along with the player liaison officer and good friend Pepe Costa have all been invited.
All Those Who Aren’t...
Despite their seemingly close bond, Barcelona’s recently departed coach, Luis Enrique, has not been sent an invitation.
The same can be said for Barcelona’s entire board, many of whom have seen the player progress from the youth ranks to super stardom.
According to Sport.es, the decision to not invite the board was taken due to the hostility between former club presidents, Sandro Rossell and Joan Laporte.
Finding the ideal wedding gift for a man who seemingly has it all might be a daunting task.
Fortunately for the guests, the couple has requested them to make donations to Messi’s charity, The Leo Messi Foundation. The charity supports children in the fields of health care, education, and sport.
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