The man who discovered Barcelona star Lionel Messi says the Argie is now too big for his boots! Ernesto Vecchio, who launched Messi's career in Argentina, says the world's top player now shuns him and has turned his back on his humble beginnings.

Vecchio spotted Messi playing in the street and took him to Newell's Old Boys, where he coached him before he left for Barcelona as a 12-year-old.

But Vecchio, 58, said: "It's over 10 years since we spoke. It's a shame kids forget some things when they find success.

"In 2006 I heard he was in Rosario and I went to his house to catch up with old times.

"They told me he wasn't there, but it was a lie. He must have been afraid I would ask him for something. Money changes people a bit."