A Training Session That Turned Into an Argentine Party

The Martínez Valero hosted a morning that will be remembered for years. The Argentina national team, led by Lionel Messi, held an open training session before traveling to Angola — and Elche responded with overwhelming passion: 20,085 fans filled the stands to see the world champions up close.

The atmosphere felt like a matchday in Buenos Aires. Flags, chants, the “Muchachos” anthem, and a massive banner reading “Coronados de gloria vivamos” featuring Maradona, Messi, and the Qatar 2022 heroes transformed the stadium into a full-blown Albiceleste celebration. The club, owned by Christian Bragarnik, orchestrated a reception loaded with symbolism and warmth.

And in the middle of that festive chaos came the moment no one expected.

The Gift That Took Messi by Surprise

During a pause in the session, Elche staff approached Messi with a special present: a customized jersey with his name and the iconic No. 10 on the back. A simple gesture, yet deeply meaningful.
Messi’s reaction was as genuine as it gets: he put his hands on his head, smiled in disbelief, and admired the gift with visible emotion. The photo, shared instantly by Elche CF, went viral worldwide within minutes.

For a split second, fans allowed themselves to dream the impossible — seeing Messi wearing the green sash for real someday.

An Open Session That Felt Like a Celebration

Every touch from Messi was greeted like a goal. When he scored during a finishing drill, the stadium erupted in a roar worthy of a World Cup qualifier.

The players were treated as heroes; Messi, as always, as something greater. Even Elche goalkeeper Matías Dituro stole a moment of the spotlight by showing up with Argentina’s jersey and a mate in hand.

The unusual training session left behind an iconic image: Messi, surprised and emotional, holding an Elche jersey. A small, spontaneous moment that instantly became part of the Martínez Valero’s history — and of the global football conversation.