Reza Parastesh, known as the "Iranian Messi" for his resemblance to Lionel Messi, has denied allegations that he tricked women into sleeping with him and criticised Gary Lineker for spreading the story. The 34-year-old became an internet sensation in 2017 due to his striking likeness to the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Allegations and denial
In 2019, Spanish publication Marca reported that Parastesh had duped 23 women into sleeping with him under the impression he was the former Barcelona and current PSG player. Parastesh vehemently denied the claims, noting he lives in a traditionally conservative country where sexual relations outside of marriage are illegal.
The rumour spread rapidly, with Match of the Day host Gary Lineker sharing the story with his millions of followers. In an exclusive interview with Daily Star Sport, Parastesh said: "Spreading this false news is unforgivable in my opinion. I don't have an international lawyer to pursue this matter and take it to court."
Impact on his life
Parastesh said the news affected his work and public position adversely. He added: "Put yourself in my place. You're living in a Muslim country and this false news is spread, what will happen? Do you know that this sentence carries the death penalty in my country? This will be a national disaster."
His celebrity status also brought trouble with Iranian authorities, who detained him for causing public disorder when he was swarmed by crowds. "I was arrested several times in Iran and Russia," he revealed. "People gather around me so much that the street will be closed, especially during sports events."
Messi connection and future plans
Parastesh recalled the 2014 World Cup when Iran suffered a 1-0 defeat to Argentina, with Messi scoring the last-minute winner. "After Messi scored against Iran, my father did not allow me to enter the house," he said.
Even though Messi, at 39, has retired from international football, Parastesh is not worried about his own future once Messi retires at club level. "I thought about this a lot," he said. "It doesn't matter. I look like Messi. My name has remained in history as Reza Parastesh, who looks like Messi and it always stays like this."
Parastesh runs a start-up teaching English to autistic and needy children for free. He said: "I believe with all the difficulties and limitations in my country, I am the first person who was able to show myself as someone who looks like a football player to many countries in the world and create good impressions. It makes me very happy to make people happy and do something for them. I am proud to look like Messi."
