Rome: Pope Francis, a football fan like most Argentines, was all smiles when Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham presented him with a Manchester United shirt signed by his compatriot Lisandro Martinez during a visit to the Vatican on Thursday.

The Pope received the Argentina and United defender’s glass-framed No 6 jersey with the message “Your holiness, with much love, Licha”, United said on their website, in a private audience with a delegation of Manchester’s religious leaders.

Messi shirt

“I think @Pontifex particularly appreciated this gift, presented by @AndyBurnhamGM and the Lord Mayor,” tweeted British Ambassador to the Holy See Chris Trott.

Pope Francis, who was also presented with a Manchester City shirt, was given a signed Lionel Messi shirt by then French Prime Minister Jean Castex in 2021.

World Cup winner Martinez suffered a foot injury last week and will miss the rest of the season.

More From Football

Ten Hag blasts United players after Sevilla thrashing

Healthcare workers face trial over Maradona’s death

Bayern’s Tuchel gamble laid bare after exit

City hit their stride for tilt at United’s treble