Messi to Maradona after his operation: We want to see you well as soon as possible

Lionel Messi has sent a well-wishing message to compatriot Diego Maradona after the football icon's emergency surgery in Argentina for possible bleeding in the brain. The Barcelona forward played under Maradona for Argentina, and their two careers have been regularly compared.

"Diego, all the strength in the world," Messi's message read. "My family and I want to see you well as soon as possible. A big hug." Together with the message, posted on the Barcelona player's Instagram account, Messi uploaded a picture of the pair side by side from back when Maradona was his national team manager.

Maradona is still at hospital

Maradona is still at the Clinica Olivos hospital, where he underwent the operation. According to the medical team, the procedure was a success, but Maradona's family and loved ones remain concerned. "His behaviour was strange," said Matias Morla, Maradona's lawyer, "he was very down and spoke about deceased relatives, saying that he missed them." "On his birthdays he is always nostalgic," continued Morla, "he misses his mother a lot, but this time it was different."

In the last few hours, the messages of support have been pouring in for the footballing legend, but the one from Messi will no doubt be particularly special.