Barcelona star Lionel Messi arrived in Senegal to help launch a campaign against malaria in the African nation. Messi is advocating the use of treated mosquitoes net to reduce malaria.
The four-time World Footballer of the Year told BBC Sport: “I am really delighted to come to Senegal.”
While speaking at a press conference at the Aspire Academy in Senegal, the Argentina international spoke kindly of former Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho, who he described as a “great coach.”
Messi, 26, believes Mourinho will be a huge success on his return to Chelsea.
“I think the Spanish league is difficult anyway and will continue being difficult,” said Messi at the Aspire Academy in Senegal. “We’ll be fighting against strong teams with great players like Real Madrid.
“Mourinho was a great coach but we know that Ancelotti is equally great. I think Mourinho will also succeed back at Chelsea because he’s a great manager.”
After a three-year spell at the Bernabeu, the Portuguese coach recently signed a 4-year contract with the blues. The former Porto and Inter Milan coach was a much debated figure in the Spanish media and failed to impress the Baulgranas after a tumultuous spell in Madrid.
Mourinho’s conduct led to Barca playmaker Andres Iniesta claiming that he had done “more harm than good” to Spanish football during his time in the capital.
Messi received a warm welcome from Senegalese who climbed up to rooftops to catch a glimpse of him as some took to the street, brandishing his Barca Jersey, some held up placards which contained welcome notes.
Kudos to world bessst. Onye no 1. Morinho is back home for good.