by Isi Esene

Lionel Messi, the Barcelona FC forward, and partner, Antonella Roccuzzo yesterday announced the birth of their first child named, Thiago.

Messi announced the good news on his Facebook page saying, “Today I am the happiest man in the world, my son was born and thanks to God for this gift! Thanks to my family for the support! A hug to everyone.”

Not minding the arrival of the new bundle of joy, Messi is today expected to take to the field in Barcelona’s home game against Celta de Vigo.

Barcelona coach, Tito Vilanova, said the Argentine is still expected to play at the Camp Nou on Saturday.

“In principle he will be there for the game. It does not change anything that he has not trained for one day, it’s not important,” Vilanova told a news conference.

Messi had recently told reporters that he would not pressure his son to follow his footsteps by adopting a footballing career in future.

“When he grows up he will get to know what he wants and what he chooses will be fine for me, for his mother and for everyone,” Messi said.

Last weekend, the Argentina and Barcelona forward scored his 300th career goal.