Falcao has statue erected in home town

Radamel Falcao has a statue of himself being built in his home town— but it looks nothing like him.

The 19- foot statue is being built in the city of Santa Marta, Colombia in the province of Magdalena, where he was born.

The all- white statue shows Falcao, 32, celebrating a goal with his trademark celebration, pointing to the sky, reported the Sun.

However, the face bares next to no resemblance to the Monaco striker.

Local media have compared the statue, which is still under construction, to the one of Cristiano Ronaldo released at the airport named after the Portuguese star.

Ronaldo’s statue was replaced with a more life- like one with symmetrical eyes and a regular smile but fans launched a petition to bring the old one, compared to Niall Quinn and The Head from Art Attack, back.

The artist behind the Falcao statue, Antonio Irisma Arias, told El Tiempo earlier this year: “For his discipline, perseverance and fight he is an example for children and adults to follow.

“We feel proud of this son of Santa Marta and that is why we wanted to create this work in his name.

“Everyone’s wants him ( Falcao) to visit the neighbourhood so that he can appreciate this heartfelt homage that he wanted to present him with affection and respect.”

The statue is reportedly near completion but it remains unclear if Arias will change Falcao’s face.

Colombia captain Falcao was born in Santa Marta and started his career with Colombian side Lanceros Boyaca before moving to Argentinian giants River Plate.

The former Manchester United and Chelsea flop is his country’s leading all- time goalscorer, with 31 goals in 79 matches.