12.01.2011 22:30

Homage to three Ballon d'Or stars

Roger Bogunyà

Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández received a standing ovation from the FC Barcelona faithful before the Copa del Rey game against Real Betis when they took to the field to celebrate the Ballon d'Or success.

With the Barça hymn playing in the background and the rest of the players applauding the three best players in the world stepped forward to greet the fans and Messi held the prestigious gong aloft. As a tribute the mothers of the three players, Maria Mercè Creus (mother of Xavi), María Luján (Iniesta) and Celia Cuccittini (Messi), had recorded messages for their famous sons and the crowd revelled as they were played on the loud speaker.

Satnding ovation

The applause made hearing the entire message of each lady difficult, but that did not matter as the players knew what was being said and the supporters wanted to cheer their heroes.

Puyol presents

Carles Puyol went to the touchline to collect the Ballon d'Or and he then presented it to Messi in honour of the Argentinian star. It was a celebration of all three players though after the tremendous year that they have all enjoyed. Messi was keen to not pose for photos on his own and ensured that Xavi and Iniesta stayed close as all there had said that the fact that all three finalists were from the Blaugrana meant that the club could celebrate even more.

Maternal messages

"Many years ago you began to pursue your dream, a dream that took you a long way from home, a dream that changed your life." (Messi's mother)

"A new family gave you a dream and it was Barça. Some people have coached you and counselled you and a new family has helped you and we know that they will continue to help you." (Iniesta's mother)

"It was a dream that required a lot of work, a lot of sweat and, also a lot of tears." (Xavi's mother)

"This dream did not make you lose sight of anything. During this time you have grown as a player and, above all, as a person." (Messi's mother)

"You are a person who has earned the love and respect of many people and that makes me very proud." (Xavi's mother)

"For me you are already a winner and deserve all the prizes that you can win." (Iniesta's mother)

"I am delighted for you and for us." (Messi's mother)

"And for all the people that respect you and love you." (Xavi's mother)