Barcelona star should probably stick to the dayjob

When underwear manufacturers select a spokesperson and model from the world of football, they usually side with someone whose good looks and chiselled features best highlight their product. The Adonis-like bodies of David Beckham and Freddie Ljungberg are fine examples of this slightly homoerotic marketing technique.

Argentinean underwear producers Lody have not quite understood this principle, and have attempted to cut into the Calvin Klein/ Armani market share by employing the services of Leo Messi, a man whose face makes young children cry. Something tells me the slouch pose and baggy t-shirt combo will probably not have the punters rushing to emulate the greasy-haired forward. And is it me, or does it look like he’s been wearing those pants for about four days?

Still, he’s obviously doing something right, as he’s managed to land himself a Playboy model.

More slightly disturbing images after the jump.

Playboy model who is currently enjoying a ‘cyber-romance’ with fugly Barcelona star

Leo Messi isn’t the most handsome sportsman in the world, but that hasn’t stopped him pursuing Playboy model and popular Argentinean media figure Luciana Salazar. The 27-year-old blonde is currently based in Buenos Aires, so with the exception of one phone call, their relationship has thus far blossomed exclusively online.

Apparently, Leo was planning dedicate a goal to her against Brazil last week with an ‘L for Luciana/loser’ hand salute. Unfortunately, that goal never happened, and Luciana and her ginormous chest remain un-saluted.