Rosario’s young players dream of following Lionel Messi to World Cup glory

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, the Argentine city of Rosario is honouring its most celebrated son, Lionel Messi, who began his footballing journey at Newell's Old Boys before moving to FC Barcelona's youth academy at 13. More than 1,000 children now train at the club's academy, hoping to follow in his footsteps, with football offering many a route out of poverty. Messi's childhood home has become a tourist destination, and the Sports Museum of Santa Fe stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. In a country marked by economic hardship and political division, he remains a rare symbol of unity and national pride.

Al Jazeera's Teresa Bo reports from Rosario, Argentina.

Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe
Follow us on X: https://X.com/AJEnglish
Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera
Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/
Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/
Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.news/AJEMobile

#LionelMessi #FIFAWorldCup2026 #Rosario #Argentina #Football #NewellsOldBoys #SantaFe #WorldCup2026