Argentine Martín Mantovani, former Leganés player and now the club's ambassador, fantasized about the possibility of his compatriot Leo Messi choosing to finish his career wearing the white and blue jersey of the Madrid-based team, allowing him to enjoy his time in the Spanish capital.

Mantovani played for Leganés from 2013 to 2018, was part of their promotion to La Liga in 2016, and six years after his departure, has returned to the “pepinero” club as an ambassador.

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"It's a classic for the people of southern Madrid. It's a completely different game, between two cities so close that they almost blend together, not knowing where one starts and the other ends. These matches are very distinctive. I’ve had the chance to play in them with a unique atmosphere because the fans cross paths during work hours, enjoy a beer together, and there's a lot of friendship, but also a healthy neighborhood rivalry in the derby," he commented.

"The results are amplified in the cities depending on who wins," Mantovani added, acknowledging that the return to La Liga has sparked "excitement" among the fans.

"We're very eager. The team still needs to find its rhythm; many new players have joined, and hopefully, we can build a squad that holds its own in the league. I hope as time goes on, players like Sébastien Haller will settle in, and he can have a great season," said the former Argentine player during the presentation of "Five Teams, Five Stars," a tribute by Mahou to the Madrid clubs.

Mantovani was asked which player he would like to see wearing the Leganés jersey, and he took the opportunity to half-jokingly express a seemingly far-fetched dream.

"I would love to see Messi wearing the Leganés jersey, staying in Madrid, and having a great time," he concluded.