“Lionel Messi : the Argentine football icon, boasts numerous Balloon d’Or triumphs, prolific goal-scoring abilities, and wields a global impact on and off the field.”
Born Name : Lionel Andrés Messi
Date of birth : 24 June 1987 (age 36)
Place of birth : Rosario, Argentina
Height : 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in)
Position(s) : Forward, Attacking midfielder
Balloon Dior : 8 Balloon Dior
About
Lionel Andrés Messi, commonly known as Leo Messi. He is an Argentine football icon celebrated as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history. His exceptional career is marked by numerous records and accolades, shaping his legacy on both the club and international levels.
Born on June 24, 1987, Messi’s journey to stardom began when he moved from Argentina to Spain at the age of 13 to join Barcelona. He made his competitive debut for the club at 17 in October 2004. He quickly establishing himself as an indispensable part of the team.
During his time at Barcelona which lasted until 2021 .Messi amassed an impressive collection of 34 trophies, including ten La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey titles and four UEFA Champions League triumphs.
A prolific scorer and a creative force on the field, Messi holds multiple records, including the most goals in La Liga, most hat-tricks in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League and the most assists in La Liga and the Copa América. His goal-scoring prowess extends beyond 800 senior career goals for club and country . With an astonishing 672 goals for a single club, a record for a player at one club.
His illustrious career includes an array of individual honors, with a record eight Balloon d’Or awards and six European Golden Shoes among his many achievements.
Notably, Messi played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s historic first treble in Spanish football during the 2008–09 season and led the team to a second treble in 2014–15.
In 2021, after leaving Barcelona, Messi spent two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, winning the Ligue 1 title twice, before joining Inter Miami in 2023, where he secured the Leagues Cup.
On the international stage, Messi’s leadership as Argentina’s all-time leading goal scorer and appearances holder has been remarkable. He guided Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa América and the pinnacle of success, winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he earned his second Golden Ball and set a record for the most games played at a World Cup.
Off the field, Messi’s influence extends as he’s been named among Time’s 100 most influential people in the world multiple times and has earned recognition for his impact on global sports. He’s also been a prominent figure in endorsements, notably with Adidas, and was among the highest-paid athletes globally, surpassing $1 billion in career earnings.
Messi’s remarkable skills, consistency and dedication have etched his name in football history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring generations of players and fans worldwide.
Leo Childhood
Lionel Messi, born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, is the third of four siblings. Growing up in a family passionate about football, Messi’s early exposure to the sport fueled his own love for it. His football journey commenced at the age of four when he joined his first club, guided by none other than his father. However, it was his grandmother who served as a significant source of inspiration and support.
Tragedy struck at the age of eleven with the loss of his beloved grandmother, a moment that profoundly impacted Messi. In her memory, he developed a tradition of pointing towards the sky after each goal as a tribute. Despite the emotional challenges, his childhood was further complicated by a health obstacle. At the age of 10, Messi was diagnosed with Growth Hormone Deficiency, posing a threat to his budding football career. Yet, his family rallied together, providing the necessary support for him to overcome the ailment.
In 2000, Messi’s football prowess earned him a trial with Barcelona, a club that would later become synonymous with his success. Although selected, he initially struggled to integrate into the team, being the lone foreigner. Initially limited to friendly matches, Messi’s breakthrough came in 2002 when, having acquired Spanish Citizenship after a year with Barcelona’s youth club, he was finally permitted to participate in all matches. This marked a pivotal moment in his career, paving the way for the extraordinary success that would follow.
Leo Early life
Lionel Messi, born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, emerged from a close-knit football-loving family. His passion for the sport blossomed early, playing with older siblings and cousins, fostering his talent and love for the game.
Joining Newell’s Old Boys at six, Messi thrived, netting nearly 500 goals for “The Machine of ’87” youth team. However, his path to professionalism faced hurdles at age 10 due to a growth hormone deficiency.
Newell’s initially pledged support but later withdrew, leaving Messi’s prospects uncertain until Barcelona’s intervention.
In 2000, after a successful trial, Barcelona secured Messi’s talent, albeit amidst board hesitance. A move to Spain followed in 2001. Where Messi encountered challenges integrating due to a language barrier and homesickness. He overcoming these obstacles to join Barcelona’s esteemed La Masia youth academy in 2002 , aged 13 .
Graduating to Barcelona’s ranks after a growth hormone treatment at 14, Messi quickly showcased brilliance with the “Baby Dream Team,” winning trophies and gaining acclaim. Despite tempting offers from abroad, his loyalty remained with Barcelona.
His first-team debut at 16 revealed a prodigious talent, quickly impressing teammates and coaches alike. His growth continued, transitioning from the reserve to the first team and earning praise from established players like Ronaldinho.
Overcoming physical disparities, Messi honed his skills and strength, scoring goals and securing his place in Barcelona’s senior squad. Despite challenges, including a growth hormone deficiency diagnosis and initial struggles adapting to a new country and team.
His exceptional talent and resilience converged, epitomized by his pivotal role in Barcelona’s triumphant 2005 league title win. This victory solidified his impact within the team, marking the beginning of Messi’s extraordinary journey to becoming a stalwart figure in football history.
Leo Conjugal life
Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo’s enduring love story serves as a testament to the enduring power of love. Originating in their hometown of Rosario, Argentina, their connection traces back to their childhood, blossoming into a deep and lasting bond. Despite physical distances and the demands of Messi’s professional football career, their relationship not only withstood the challenges but also flourished.
The culmination of their love story was marked by a beautiful wedding, symbolizing their commitment to each other. In this union, Messi and Antonela have been blessed with three adorable children, adding warmth and joy to their family life. The couple’s journey reflects a profound connection that has matured and strengthened over time, overcoming obstacles and thriving in the face of life’s complexities.
Messi and Antonela’s public appearances and social media posts offer glimpses into their personal life, showcasing shared moments of happiness and support. The bond they share extends beyond the public eye, rooted in a private world where love, understanding, and mutual respect form the foundation of their conjugal bliss. Together, they embody a love story that transcends borders, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide and inspiring others with the enduring magic of true love.
Leo Club career
2003–2005: rise to the first team
During the 2003–04 season, Messi swiftly progressed through four youth teams. Excelling in international pre-season competitions with Juveniles B, he moved up to Juveniles A, scoring 18 goals in 11 league games. Identified as a potential asset for Frank Rijkaard’s squad, Messi’s brilliance in training impressed even seasoned players.
His debut as a substitute against Porto in November 2003 caught Barcelona’s eye. Messi intensified his training, dividing time between Barcelona B and the first team, earning praise and camaraderie from Ronaldinho.
To gain experience, Messi bolstered Barcelona C, rescuing them from relegation with his goals. Signing his first professional contract in February 2004, Messi’s determination fueled his development despite physical disparities, concluding the season with 36 goals across competitions.
The subsequent 2004–05 season solidified Messi’s role in Barcelona B. A positional switch to the right-wing leveraged his left-footed prowess. His league debut against Espanyol marked the start of a burgeoning career, crowned by his inaugural senior goal against Albacete as Barcelona clinched the league title after six years.
2005–2008: becoming a starting eleven player
At 18, Messi signed his first senior contract, locking in a €150 million buyout clause, extending his Barcelona tenure until 2010. His impressive performance against Juventus during the Joan Gamper Trophy earned standing ovations at Camp Nou. Despite tempting offers, including one from Inter Milan, Messi opted to stay with Barcelona after thoughtful consideration.
Legal issues initially sidelined Messi in the 2005–06 La Liga, but gaining Spanish citizenship allowed his debut. Gradually establishing himself as the team’s right winger alongside Ronaldinho and Eto’o, his potential shone. However, a hamstring injury during the Chelsea match forced him to miss the Champions League final, leaving him disappointed.
In the 2006–07 campaign, despite injuries, Messi’s talent was evident, gaining recognition as one of the world’s top players. Notably, he showcased brilliance in the Clásico and secured a contract extension, signifying his growing importance to the team.
Often likened to Maradona, Messi mirrored the Argentine legend’s famous goals in quick succession against Getafe and Espanyol. Despite his individual brilliance, Barcelona faced challenges, falling short of major titles.
With Ronaldinho’s decline, Messi, now 20, emerged as Barcelona’s pivotal player, earning the nickname “Messiah” from Spanish media. He received accolades in Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year nominations. Injuries limited his appearances, yet he managed 16 goals in the 2007–08 season. However, Barcelona ended the season without trophies, finishing third in the league and exiting the Champions League.
2008–10: first treble and Balloon d’Or
After Rijkaard and Ronaldinho left, Messi claimed the number 10 shirt and signed a lucrative contract, becoming Barcelona’s highest-paid player. Collaborating with the club to minimize injuries, he enjoyed nearly four injury-free years after implementing new strategies.
In 2008, Messi secured second place in both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year, trailing Cristiano Ronaldo. Under Guardiola’s guidance in the 2008–09 season, Messi thrived, excelling as a versatile false winger.
His standout moments included a significant 6–2 victory over Real Madrid, showcasing his evolution. Playing as a false nine, Messi played a pivotal role in securing the Copa del Rey and La Liga title. The Champions League final against Manchester United culminated in a historic treble for Barcelona.
In September 2009, Messi extended his contract with an increased salary and a substantial buyout clause. Later that year, Barcelona achieved a remarkable sextuple triumph, with Messi at the forefront.
Awarded the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year at just 22, Messi transitioned from the right wing to the false nine position, becoming pivotal in Guardiola’s tactics. His goal-scoring prowess peaked, matching club records and becoming Barcelona’s all-time top scorer in the Champions League.
In a spectacular 47-goal season, Messi’s standout performance against Arsenal solidified his status. Despite a Champions League exit, his eight goals earned him the top scorer title for a second year. He also secured his first European Golden Shoe during Barcelona’s triumphant La Liga campaign.
2010–2012: trophies and records
In the 2010–11 season, Messi’s impact was evident, securing Barcelona’s Supercopa de España triumph with a hat-trick against Sevilla and contributing significantly to their 5–0 win in a Clásico against Real Madrid.
His exceptional form led to 16 consecutive league victories, establishing a new Spanish football record. Despite criticism for Argentina’s performance in the World Cup, his club performances earned him the first-ever FIFA Ballon d’Or.
Throughout 2011, Messi continued his stellar displays. He played a crucial role in Barcelona’s Champions League success, scoring vital goals against Real Madrid and clinching a 3–1 victory in the final against Manchester United.
His contributions secured Barcelona’s third consecutive La Liga title, ending the season with a record-breaking 53 goals in all competitions. The 2011–12 campaign showcased Messi’s evolution into a formidable scorer and creator, amassing an unprecedented 73 goals and 29 assists.
He lifted Barcelona to triumph in various competitions, including the FIFA Club World Cup, receiving accolades like the FIFA Balloon d’Or and the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award.
In 2012, Messi made history by netting five goals in a Champions League match and breaking Barcelona’s goal-scoring record. As Guardiola’s era drew to a close, Messi’s exceptional performances continued, contributing significantly to Barcelona’s successes despite challenges in league and European competitions. Under Tito Vilanova’s guidance, Messi set new scoring records and claimed his fourth consecutive FIFA Balloon d’Or, solidifying his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.
2013–2014: Messidependencia
Amid four seasons of relative freedom from muscular injuries, Messi faced a resurgence of hamstring issues. His crucial appearances became sporadic, notably coming off the bench against PSG in a vital Champions League clash, guiding Barcelona to the semi-finals. However, his fitness struggles continued, contributing to Barcelona’s defeat against Bayern Munich and fueling the concept of “Messidependencia,” Barcelona’s reliance on him.
Through 2013, Messi grappled with recurrent injuries, parting ways with his longtime physiotherapist. A hamstring injury marred his record-breaking scoring streak in La Liga. Despite his setbacks, he secured numerous accolades, including the European Golden Shoe for the third time.
In 2014, Messi endured ongoing doubts about his form, contributing less statistically. Nonetheless, he broke Barcelona’s and El Clásico’s all-time scoring records. His reduced output marked a shift from his previous high standards. Barcelona’s trophyless season led to scrutiny and even booing from some fans.
2014–15: second treble
Under Luis Enrique’s guidance, Messi began the 2014–15 season injury-free, setting new records. He became La Liga’s top scorer ever and ruled the Derbi barceloní. Despite his feats, he missed out on the Balloon d’Or due to Argentina’s World Cup placement.
Barcelona’s shift began in early 2015 during a critical win over Atlético Madrid. The “MSN” trio—Messi, Luis Suárez, and Neymar—flourished, reducing the team’s reliance on Messi’s solo brilliance. His move back to the right wing revitalized the team.
Their collective effort produced a record 122 goals, leading Barcelona to La Liga and Copa del Rey glory. In the Champions League, Messi’s standout displays, notably against Bayern Munich, propelled Barcelona to the final. Their win over Juventus secured their second treble, earning Messi the UEFA Best Player in Europe award for the second time.
2016–17: Fourth Golden Boot
During 2016–17, Messi guided Barcelona to Supercopa de España success, contributing key goals and assists in pivotal fixtures. His return from injury was impactful, notably netting a hat-trick against Celtic in the UEFA Champions League, setting a new record for the most hat-tricks in the tournament.
Amassing 51 goals in the year, Messi’s exceptional performance fell just short in the Ballon d’Or, yet he continued to shine. He equaled and surpassed Barcelona’s free-kick scoring record and marked his 500th goal for the club with a crucial strike against Real Madrid, celebrated dramatically in front of their supporters.
His influential role in the Copa del Rey final secured another triumph for Barcelona, wrapping up the season with 54 goals and claiming the Pichichi and European Golden Boot Awards for the fourth time.
2017–18: domestic double and a record fifth Golden Boot
During the 2017–18 season, Messi kicked off with a Supercopa de España penalty goal against Real Madrid, further solidifying his record in El Clásico. His stellar performances continued with hat-tricks against Espanyol and Eibar, setting a high-scoring rhythm for Barcelona.
Displaying his consistency, Messi hit milestones throughout the season, including his 100th UEFA club goal in just 122 appearances, demonstrating his unparalleled efficiency. His incredible free-kick ability became a focal point as he surpassed records and reached his 366th La Liga goal against Real Sociedad.
Continuing his scoring spree, Messi achieved his 600th career goal against Atlético Madrid and became only the second player to score 100 Champions League goals, achieving this milestone in fewer games and at a younger age than his closest rival.
Ending the season with accolades, he secured the Golden Shoe for the fifth time and played a crucial role in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey triumph, netting in the final against Sevilla. His hat-trick against Deportivo de La Coruña sealed Barcelona’s 25th league title, while a goal against Villarreal set an unbeaten La Liga record of 43 games.
2018–19: captaincy, 10th La Liga title, and a record sixth Golden Boot
In the 2018-2019 season, Messi, after assuming Barcelona’s captaincy, led the team to victories and set numerous records. He secured the Supercopa de España with a 2–1 win over Sevilla and marked Barcelona’s 6000th La Liga goal against Alavés with two goals in their opening match.
Throughout the season, Messi achieved milestones, including a hat-trick against PSV Eindhoven, breaking the Champions League record for most hat-tricks. However, an arm injury sidelined him for three weeks after a game against Sevilla. Returning stronger, he notably scored two impressive free-kicks against Espanyol, becoming the first to score double-digit goals in La Liga for 13 consecutive seasons.
In January 2019, Messi reached a remarkable feat, scoring his 400th La Liga goal in just 435 appearances, a first in Europe’s top five leagues.He also became the third player in La Liga history to score 50 penalties. Meanwhile, Barcelona started planning for Messi’s eventual retirement.
He continued to excel, achieving his 50th career hat-trick and marking his 650th senior career goal. Messi played a crucial role in Barcelona’s Champions League journey.
Notably netting twice against Manchester United in the quarter-finals. His goal against Levante sealed Barcelona’s La Liga victory, marking his 450th appearance and the first league title as captain.
In the Champions League semi-finals, Messi scored his 600th senior club goal in the first leg against Liverpool. However, despite his efforts, Barcelona faced a shocking defeat in the return leg, crashing out of the competition.
2019–20: record sixth Ballon d’Or
August 2020: desire to leave Barcelona
2020–21: final season at Barcelona
In the 2019-2020 season, Messi faced ups and downs. He missed Barcelona’s US tour due to a calf injury and later suffered setbacks, delaying his return after the September break. Still, his chipped goal against Real Betis got him a FIFA Puskás Award nomination.
Returning in September, Messi quickly made an impact, breaking Ronaldo’s La Liga goal record with a stunning free kick against Sevilla. He continued impressively in the Champions League, setting new scoring records.
He notched his 50th free-kick goal and surpassed Ronaldo’s club goal tally. A hat-trick against Celta Vigo equaled Ronaldo’s La Liga record. His 700th Barcelona appearance brought another milestone: breaking the Champions League opponents scored against record.
Personal accolades followed, with Messi securing his sixth Ballon d’Or and netting his 35th La Liga hat-trick. He scored four against Eibar, displaying his extraordinary talent.
Creating history, Messi became the sole player in La Liga to score 20+ goals for 12 straight seasons. He hit his 700th career goal and matched Xavi’s La Liga assist record. His season total of over 20 goals and assists was a rare feat.
Despite winning his seventh Pichichi trophy, Barcelona missed out on the league title. In the Champions League, they made the quarter-finals but suffered a shocking 8–2 loss to Bayern Munich, leading to an early exit.
Paris Saint-Germain
2021–22: first season adjustments and seventh Ballon d’Or
2022–23: return to form and departure
Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in August, signing a two-year deal with a potential extension and choosing the number 30. His debut for PSG came at the end of August in a 2–0 win against Reims.
He made notable appearances in the Champions League and Ligue 1, scoring his first goal against Manchester City and his first Ligue 1 goal versus Nantes. His remarkable 2021 achievements, including helping Argentina win the Copa América and scoring 40 goals, secured him a record seventh Ballon d’Or.
However, his first season faced hurdles, including a COVID-19 positive test in January. Despite returning with an assist in January, the Champions League exit against Real Madrid led to criticism for Messi and Neymar from some PSG fans.
Yet, Messi contributed to PSG clinching their 10th Ligue 1 title in April with a goal against Lens. His debut season concluded with 11 goals and 14 assists across competitions, a shift from his usual scoring prowess, notably finishing with six league goals, a departure from his usual standards since his early years at Barcelona.
Inter Miami
Following his departure from PSG, speculation swirled around Messi’s potential return to Barcelona or a move to Al-Hilal. Eventually, his decision to join Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami was communicated to Barcelona’s president by June 5, 2023, as financial constraints hindered Barcelona’s ability to secure his return.
Inter Miami teased Messi’s potential signing on June 7, generating anticipation. In a joint interview with Mundo Deportivo and Sport, Messi confirmed his interest in joining Miami, highlighting the challenges of returning to Barcelona due to financial and squad restructuring issues.
Despite offers from other European clubs, Messi reiterated his desire to exclusively play for Barcelona in Europe. On July 15, Inter Miami officially announced Messi’s signing on a two-and-a-half year deal. A fan-focused event, “La PresentaSÍon,” held at DRV PNK Stadium, introduced Messi and ex-Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets to Miami fans the next day.
Messi’s contract involves a base salary of $12 million and guaranteed earnings totaling $20.4 million for the 2023 season. Moreover, he stands to profit from jersey sales, MLS Season Pass subscriptions, and holds a stake in the club.
2023: Leagues Cup victory and eighth Ballon d’Or
Messi debuted for Inter Miami in a Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul, sealing a 2–1 win with a stoppage-time free-kick goal. He continued his impressive start with nine goals in six games and scored in the Leagues Cup final against Nashville SC, which Miami won in a penalty shootout, claiming their first trophy.
In his MLS debut against New York Red Bulls, Messi, as a substitute, scored a late goal in a 2–0 away win, ending Inter’s eleven-match winless streak. This earned him the Goal of the Matchday award with an 89.7% vote.
Following his World Cup victory with Argentina and success at PSG, Messi secured his eighth Ballon d’Or. Ending his debut season with 11 goals in 14 matches, Messi played his final game in a 1–0 loss to Charlotte FC, as Miami finished 14th in the Eastern Conference, facing a winless streak in their last seven games.
His outstanding achievements in 2023 earned Messi the Time Athlete of the Year, a historic first for a footballer to receive this accolade.
International career
2004–2005: success at youth level
2005–2006: senior and World Cup debuts
2007–2008: Copa América final and Olympic gold
2008–2011: collective decline
2011–2013: assuming the captaincy
2014–2015: World Cup and Copa América finals
2016–2017: third Copa América final, first retirement, and return
2018: World Cup
2019–2020: Copa América third-place and suspension
2021–2022: Copa América and World Cup triumphs
2023–present: 100 international goals
In the 2021 Copa América, Messi was pivotal, scoring a memorable free kick against Chile and setting records by equalling and surpassing Javier Mascherano’s appearance record. Argentina clinched the Copa América title, with Messi’s contributions earning him the joint Player of the Tournament award alongside Neymar.
His achievements continued as he became South America’s leading male international scorer and secured the 2022 Finalissima trophy for Argentina. The 2022 FIFA World Cup witnessed Messi’s incredible consistency, scoring in every round, including the final where he netted twice in a thrilling match against France.
Messi’s outstanding performances earned him the Golden Ball and established multiple World Cup records. Despite retirement speculations, he confirmed his commitment to continue playing for Argentina after their championship win. Notably, jerseys worn by Messi during the World Cup fetched a staggering $7.8 million in an auction held in December 2023.
Personal life
Family and relationships
Since 2008, Messi has been in a relationship with Antonela Roccuzzo, a fellow native of Rosario. Their connection traces back to childhood through Roccuzzo’s cousin, Lucas Scaglia, Messi’s close friend from a young age and also a football player.
The couple, who initially kept their relationship private, confirmed their romance publicly after a year. They now have three sons together. Messi’s celebration during a match in 2012, placing the ball under his shirt, marked the joyous anticipation of their first child, Thiago, born later that year in Barcelona. Subsequently, they welcomed their second and third children, the latter arriving after their marriage in a luxurious Rosario hotel in June 2017.
The football icon’s personal and professional life intertwines with family involvement. His father serves as his agent since Messi was 14, while his oldest brother manages his schedules and publicity. His mother and another brother oversee the Leo Messi Foundation, his charitable venture.
Despite his global success, Messi maintains deep ties to his hometown of Rosario, preserving his distinctive accent and retaining property there. He often visits his family, once making a lengthy trip just for a dinner and night with them. While living in Spain during his Barcelona tenure, Messi remained connected to Rosario, where he plans to conclude his playing career at Newell’s Old Boys, a cherished ambition.
Messi’s internationality extends beyond football. Holding citizenship in Argentina, Italy, and Spain, he reflects a diverse identity shaped by his experiences and connections across countries.
