'Messi is not God!' - Pope Francis Addresses Catholic Members

The head of the Catholic Church admits to taking "joy" from the performances of a fellow Argentine, but believes high praise is wrongly bestowed

Pope Francis admits to taking “joy” from the ability of fellow Argentine Lionel Messi, but is eager to point out that the Barcelona talisman “is not God”.

Many consider the mercurial South American to be a sporting deity, with his achievements raising the bar of individual excellence.

He is worshipped as a hero by millions around the world and has seen his record-breaking on-field efforts lead to him being showered with praise and major honours – both collective and individual.