The man invaded the pitch in the 53rd minute wearing Messi’s shirt and number. He first snapped a selfie with defender Jordi Alba, then ran across the field to Lionel Messi. The man was visibly disappointed when security and police grabbed hold of him before he could reach the Argentinian footballer.
In short remarks to Spanish media, the man explained that he had looked forward to the match for a long time, and thus climbed over a two-metre fence before making his way into the stadium.
“I tried to get to Leo, but he walked away when he saw me approach him, probably thinking of the virus,” the man said. Whether there will be charges is unknown.
