KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Although soccer star Lionel Messi won’t be playing in Sunday’s game against Miami, his presence in The Sunshine State remains a huge deal for the Hispanic community in Central Florida.
A new mural of the athlete outside of Tomato Express in Kissimmee draws fans and supporters from across the area.
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The owner of the restaurant was born in the same state as Messi in Argentina and said that the family feels that he’s a role model for the next generation that’s why he’s loved by so many.
“He’s very humble and a family man and that’s the best message in sports today,” said Tomato Express owner Stella Siracuza.
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The artist of the mural Eli Rivera is from Colombia.
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