Watch: Messi wishes Totti happy 40th birthday with 'big hug'

Iconic Roma stalwart Francesco Totti celebrated his 40th birthday on Tuesday, and amid an onslaught of tributes pouring in from across the football world for the Italian star, one certainly stood out.

Barcelona magician Lionel Messi, currently recovering from injury, took some time out from his treatment regimen to deliver a special message to the illustrious Emperor of Rome.

"Hello Francesco, I want to wish you a very happy birthday," Messi says in the video above.

"I hope you have a wonderful day. I've always admired you, and even more so on the day I met you.

"A big hug!"