Lionel Messi ruins world's most expensive leg with 'awful' tattoo

A new photo has emerged of Lionel Messi's ink on his left leg - possibly the most valuable tattoo in the world.

'VILE': Many fans have slammed the tattoo design online

The Barcelona star's girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo shared a first close-up of the design on her Instagram showing it in all its glory.

In the snap, a child - believed to be Messi's son Thiago - is also seen drawing on daddy's leg in red pen.

And Roccuzzo captioned the photo: "Finishing the tattoo for Papi."

The tattoo features a basic design of a black and a white football above a winged sword, next to his famous "No 10".

The 27-year-old, who is estimated to be the most expensive player in the world, has been the subject of a huge backlash over his tattoo choice.

MINI MESSI: Leo's girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo shared the photo featuring his son Thiago

One Twitter user wrote: "Lionel Messi's leg tattoo is absolutely vile."

Another said: "Messi's taste in tattoo is really awful."

And a third added: "Why, MESSI? Leo's ruined the greatest left leg in history"

Seems Leo will have to win his fans over on the pitch as he looks to add to his 15 goals this season against David Moyes' Real Sociedad on Sunday.