'Lionel Messi is not God': Pope Francis delivers his verdict on Barcelona superstar

For many football fans, Lionel Messi is 'D10S'. The nickname is a combination of the Spanish word for 'dios' (God) and No. 10 on Messi's shirt. 

However, Pope Francis - leader of the largest church - is not so impressed by the name. While he is also a fan of the great footballer's playing skills, he said that fans should not call him 'God'.

During an interview with Spanish TV channel La Sexta on Sunday, Pope Francis was asked whether calling Messi as 'God' was sacrilege.  

"In theory, it is sacrilege," explained the leader of the Catholic Church. "You can't do it."

"People could call him God, just as they might say 'I adore you', but only God can be worshipped. 

"(Saying) 'He's a god with the ball on the pitch' is a popular way to express yourself. He's great to watch - but he's not God."

Pope Francis is also from Messi's country Argentina and is known to be a football fan. He is also a club member of Buenos Aires side San Lorenzo.