Artists restore gigantic Messi mural in his hometown

A colossal mural honoring football superstar Lionel Messi has been restored in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, just in time for his World Cup quarter-final match. The 534-square-meter artwork, titled “From another galaxy and from my city,” now proudly displays three stars on Messi's jersey, representing Argentina's three World Cup triumphs.

The restoration project required 300 liters of paint, according to project director Marlene Zuriaga. The mural, initially created in 2021, also features the word “Gracias!” emblazoned at the top, a tribute to the celebrated player.

Messi, now 39, has had a remarkable World Cup, becoming the tournament's all-time leading goalscorer. His football journey began at Newell's Old Boys, a local Rosario team, laying the foundation for his global career.

One of the artists, Lisandro Urteaga, reflected on Messi's journey, stating, “We called the mural ‘From another galaxy’ but in reality he’s a human like us, who had to deal with a lot of challenges from childhood, who was born among humble working people, who rose above it.”

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We called the mural ‘From another galaxy’ but in reality he’s a human like us, who had to deal with a lot of challenges from childhood, who was born among humble working people, who rose above it.