Internet Desk: Lionel Messi, the five times FIFA Ballon D’Or winner is well known for his charitable activities. He has done it before and is continuing to do so.
The Argentine donated a pair of his boots to Egypt on the show but received criticism for it almost immediately. The reason for this was because of a cultural belief in the Arab world regarding the donation of boots.
According to the belief, shoes and boots are a sign of disrespect towards an individual because they are unclean, and hitting someone with a pair of boots is considered as a serious insult. A few journalists and spokesmen of the country voiced their discontent at the Barcelona forward.
While Lionel Messi was giving his interview, a spokesperson from the Egyptian FA phoned the show to criticize the footballer. The spokesperson was furious and denied Messi’s charity.
Former Egyptian and Tottenham striker, Mido stood by Messi’s side and welcomed his gesture.