Lionel Messi and Antonella Roccuzzo will finally tie the knot this week, cementing a relationship that stretches right back to when they were just five years old growing up in Rosario, Argentina. Although much of their time together has been spent in Barcelona, there has been room for sentiment with the couple and their two children – Thiago and Mateo – returning to their hometown for the grand event, due to take place on June 30.
According to Mail Online, guests of the wedding will have the chance to play in the on-site casino while most will also stay in the five-star, 188-room Pullman Hotel inside the complex where rates start from almost £100 a night. There is also a fully functioning bowling alley, grass tennis courts, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool as well as a number of bars and restaurants.
The guest list will make for a who’s who of world footballing stars with Messi inviting the entire Barcelona senior squad. Luis Suarez and Neymar will be among those arriving in Santa Fe this week while Xavi Hernandez is believed to be the only former team-mate set to attend.
Around 200 security guards, coordinated by a former Argentinian military official, will turn the venue into something of a fortress although it is believed a large screen will be erected outside the grounds so Messi’s adoring fans can watch the ceremony.
