Lionel Messi pays the ultimate respect to Diego Maradona after goal vs. Osasuna

The world still can’t fathom the loss of Diego Armando Maradona, one of the greatest players to ever do it. El Diego passed away on Tuesday at 60 years old and ever sincethere have been countless tributes to honor his memory.

But, even though there have been plenty of emotional tributes thus far, perhaps none will be bigger than what Lionel Messi just did during Barcelona’s big 4-0 win vs. Osasuna for the Spanish La Liga.

Barcelona honored Maradona with his jersey before the start of the game, remembering one of the most talented players to ever suit up for the Blaugrana. Then, Argentina’s captain took it up a notch.

Lionel Messi Scores Epic Goal, Pays The Ultimate Respect To Diego Maradona

With Barcelona already up 3-0, Messi shook off a couple of defenders and sent a beautiful left-footed strike past the goalkeeper. Then, all his teammates gathered around him to shower him with support in this tough time.

Messi then proceeded to take his shirt off, revealing that he was wearing Maradona’s number 10 jersey from his days at Newell’s Old Boys, Messi’s homegrown club. Then, he looked up and pointed the sky to bid farewell to his idol and former coach.

The sports world is still lost for words after El Pelusa’s passing. He was struggling with multiple health issues lately so it’s not like it was a surprise to see him go, but everybody thought he’d get out of this one.

Now, Messi knows that he’ll have an even bigger load on his shoulders. He must carry Maradona’s torch as the greatest number 10 in the history of his country and arguably the greatest number 10 ever. Today, he honored that distinction and we’re pretty sure that El Diego is looking down on him with great pride.