PES 2012 is the start of a new era for the popular football video game series, Jon Murphy, European PES team leader for Konami has claimed.

With major advancements promised with PES 2012 this autumn, it's also time for a new face to help promote the series - Lionel Messi is being replaced after three years working with PES.

"This is the start of a major new era for PES," said Murphy. "In the coming weeks we will detail more on how the ever-popular Master League has evolved, and will be unveiling the new face of the series. With PES moving ever upwards, it is time for an equally high profile and skilled cover star. The new player has all the attributes of the new game, in that he is a strong all-rounder, skillful, fast, and capable of making magic happen on-field. We have had a wonderful three years working so closely with Lionel Messi and thank him for his efforts and support. He has been key in the evolution of the series, and we wish him all the best."

PES 2012 will be released for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC, Wii, PSP and PlayStation 2 this autumn.

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