Leo Messi is marrying childhood sweetheart Antonella Roccuzzo at a casino and hotel in Rosario, Argentina (photos)

Leo Messi, 30, has married his childhood sweetheart today Antonella Roccuzzo, 29, in a lavish Argentinian ceremony

Leo Messi, the world's greatest footballer, married his childhood sweetheart today in a lavish Argentinian ceremony.

More than 250 friends and family - including some of football's biggest names - jetted to Argentina, to watch the sporting star, 30, marry Antonella Roccuzzo, 29, at the plush hotel complex as an alleged family feud threatened to overshadow the day.

The couple, who have known each other for some 25 years, banned mobile phones at the event. Staff were also sworn to secrecy and 450 police officers were drafted in for the big day.

Messi was wearing an Armani suit designed by Argentinian designer Claudio Cosano and Antonella's wedding dress was reportedly flown in yesterday accompanied by two bodyguards

The world's press lined a red carpet at the entrance of the hotel in Rosario. Guests chose whether they walked along it to be photographed and interviewed, or went through a discreet side entrance.

Samuel Eto'o was the first guest to walk along the red carpet and past the world's press, followed by Aguero and girlfriend Karina, Cesc Fabregas and fiance Daniella Seeman, Antonella's best friend, and Argentine national team player Ezequiel Lavezzi.

Barcelona teammate Neymar arrived on his own because, according to Argentinian media, he proposed to girlfriend Bruna Marquezine and she said no.

Messi and Antonella, who have two sons, chose to marry in their home town of Rosario, northern Argentina, where they grew up together.
sources: mail online