ARThe article discusses the cultural impact of Lionel Messi in Argentina through the lens of an Argentine 'operetta' titled 'Messiánico,' created by Edgardo Martolio. The opera blends local slang ('lunfardo'), grassroots poetry, and folkloric elements to portray Messi as a near-religious figure, emphasizing his influence beyond sports. It contrasts Messi’s legacy with that of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was recently eliminated from the World Cup, suggesting that Messi has surpassed Ronaldo in cultural significance. The piece highlights how Messi’s journey—from humble beginnings in Rosario to global stardom—has inspired passionate fans, some of whom made extreme sacrifices to follow him. The opera also references historical figures like Diego Maradona and explores themes of national identity and fandom.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames Messi as a cultural icon whose influence rivals that of historical figures like Maradona, using emotive language and symbolic storytelling. While it does not overtly criticize political institutions, it positions Messi as a symbol of national pride and resilience, which aligns ide
