The Barcelona forward has given his new footwear to the former Netherlands international, who played at Camp Nou in the 1990s.

The 29-year old has given new shoes for the son of the former Netherlands legend Johan Cruyff.

December is usually the time for gift giving and helping out those in need. So to keep up with tradition, Lionel Messi has donated his new boots to former Barcelona forward Jordi Cruyff.

Cruyff, who is now the sports director at Maccabi Tel Aviv, spent three seasons at Barcelona and four at Manchester United, but never quote lived up to his billing as the son of legendary Netherlands international Johan Cruyff.

The attacker scored just eight goals during his time at Old Trafford, failing to find the net during the 1997/1998 season, and later had spells in Ukraine and Malta despite a strong start to his playing career.

Conversely, Messi has scored over 500 goals for club and country, winning five Ballon d’Or trophies, and is rated as one of the best players of all time. Messi has made the former player a special present which he shared on Twitter with his followers.

Keeping with the Christmas spirit, Messi donated his football boots to Cruyff – perhaps to help the 42-year-old find his scoring touch once more.

Cruyff was delighted with the gift, writing on Instagram: “Really happy admiring the signed boots from the #1. Huge thanks for the present.”

Johan Cruyff’s son, JordiCruyff, used to play for Barcelona and is now Tel Aviv coach. He had spells with Barcelona, Manchester United, Celta Vigo, Alaves, Espanyol, Valleta. He scored a total of 11 goals in 41 La Liga games for Barcelona before moving to Manchester United.

At Manchester United, he scored just 8 goals in the 34 Premier League matches that he featured in.