But the sculpture, located on the banks of the Rio de la Plata as part of a 'Glory Walkway' honouring Argentine sports stars, was cut in half in unclear circumstances.
"The statue of Lionel Messi fell victim to an act of vandalism that left the footballer's sculpture without its top half," a statement from the Buenos Aires city government read.
"The City Government is now working on its repair."
SEE PHOTOS: