Nov 02, 2012 at 5:09pm

Barcelona star Lionel Messi has become a father for the first time after his girlfriend, Antonella Roccuzzo, gave birth to a baby boy, Thiago.

The 25-year-old was given permission to leave training this morning to accompany his partner to USP Dexeus, a hospital in the city after she went into labour.

After several hours, the boy was born just after 17:00CET, with Rocuzzo surrounded by family and friends, including Messi's parent, Jorge and Celia.

Despite becoming a father, Messi will be available for selection for the Blaugrana against Celta Vigo on Saturday.


Source: Goal.com