The “El Ocho” re-imagines Messi’s signature X Crazyfast boot – which is differentiated from the regular X Crazyfast through the use of the Burrito Tongue – with a new colourway inspired by the shades of gold that can be seen on the Ballon d’Or award. It’s nothing new for Messi – the gold hues that signify success have been a running theme in Messi’s signature line for so long now, emphasising the fact that everything he touches seems to turn to gold. Here, they’re combined with white accents for a soft finish.

The boot design feature Messi’s children’s names and dates of birth on the heel, as well as eight balls on the medial side of each boot, representing his eight Ballon d’Or wins. Of course, there’s the number 10 in there, and a subtle little goat face for good measure. As a final sign-off,  the year of each of his Ballon d’Or wins appears on the soleplates. Expect to see Messi wearing these in upcoming fixtures.

The X Crazyfast.1 Messi “El Ocho” pack is available at adidas.com