Pope Francis: Messi is good but he is not God LaLiga Santander - Barcelona Interviewed on La Sexta

Lionel Messi may produce heavenly performances but Pope Francis called for calm in comparing the forward to God.

That is a moniker that has been bestowed upon the Argentine at times but his compatriot wasn't so enthusiastic about the comparison.

He was interviewed by Jordi Evole in La Sexta and the conversation is detailed below.

Jordi Evole: You know when both. Is it sacrilege to say the Messi is God?

Pope Francis: In theory, it is sacrilege. You can't say it and I don't believe it. Do you believe it?

Jordi Evole: I do.

Pope Francis: I don't [laughs]. People can say he is God, just as they may say 'I adore you' but only God can be worshipped. Those are expressions from people. 'This is a God with the ball on the field' is a popular way for someone to express themselves.

Jordi Evole: But he plays well doesn't he?

Pope Francis: Of course, he is very good, but he isn't God.