Gabon denies paying Messi millions to lay stadium stone

Joined by former Barcelona star Deco, Messi lay the first stone on the construction site for the new stadium – something which president Ali Bongo was delighted to take credit for.

The current world best player was invited to participate in two events: the laying of the foundation stone of the future modern stadium which will host the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations 2017 and another sports complex in Port-Gentil, the economic capital and second largest city.

Messi, who is facing trial for tax fraud in Spain, was also present at the opening of a new restaurant that belongs to the Bongo family.

“The Republic of Gabon denies having paid, or even promised to pay, such a sum of money to the Argentinian worldwide footballer Lionel Messi”, the presidency said in a statement.

“People are outraged about this”, said an opposition source in the country. ‘Messi should do a bit of research into what Bongo represents.’.

Messi’s visit also appears to have cost a chauffeur his job, or president Bongo just chose to personally drive the Barcelona forward around during his trip.

The influential football weekly “France Football” added fuel to the fire on Monday when it claimed the Barcelona maestro had received the 3.5 million euros ($3.8 million) for his appearance.

“It’s a promise he made me”.

The CIA/World Factbook states that Gabon’s per capita income is four times that of most sub-Saharan African nations, but a large portion of the population remains poor due to huge income inequality.