A life-size statue of Lionel Messi was unveiled at the South American Football Federation on Monday, intended to stand alongside the football Greats, Diego Maradona and Pele, at the federation's museum.

Messi, holding a replica of the World Cup trophy, delivered a speech to a room full of his teammates, coaches and federation, months after leading Argentina to their first World Cup triumph in 36 years in Qatar in December.

"I had never dreamed or thought about this," Messi said. "Fight for your dreams that everything is possible and enjoy above all the ball that for me and for us is the most beautiful thing there is."

AI replicas of Pele and Maradona also had a message for the Argentinian champion.

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