Lionel Messi

Argentinean professional football player, Lionel Messi, holds a preeminent position in the world of sports. He is considered a legend among his contemporaries for his outstanding performances that permeates his entire career. He plays for the national team of Argentina and Spanish club Barcelona. Playing for Barcelona he has won four UEFA Champions League titles. His prolific goal scoring streak earned him a rank among top-tier soccer players across the globe. He owns five FIFA Ballons d’Or titles among other prestigious accolades.

Early Life

On 24 June 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Lionel Andrés Messi was born to Italian father, Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini of Spanish descent. His father was a manager in a steel factory, while his mother worked in a workshop that manufactured magnets. Being raised in a soccer-loving family, Messi’s inclination toward football was natural early in his childhood. At the age of four his father had him join a local club Grandoli and then the Rosario club, Newell’s Old Boys, when he turned six. He continued to amaze crowd with his performances until 1997 when he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency, which could have impeded his progress. His father’s insurance could only cover his treatment expenditure for two years. As Newell withdrew from his promise to pay for his treatment, Messi’s family moved to Spain where he was inducted in Barcelona club, which covered all of his treatment expenses.

Career

In 2002, Messi was enrolled in the Royal Spanish Football Federation. Upon completion of his treatment, he joined Barcelona’s best youth team. He scored 36 goals in 30 games, becoming the top goal scorer of the season. He suffered a broken cheekbone during a game which didn’t hinder him from playing. He received an offer by a foreign club Arsenal to join them but he remained with Barcelona. The following years, Messi progressed rapidly. He debuted for five teams in a single campaign. Impressed by his performance, Ronaldinho befriended him and referred to him as his little brother. He saw potential in him, and he come to realize that it could prove Messi being a better player than him.

In 2005, turning eighteen, Messi signed his first contract as a senior player for the next five years. It increased his buyout clause by 150 million Euro. He performed splendidly in the following months which got attention of several clubs who made lucrative buyout offers. However, he remained with Barcelona which extended his contract till 2014. The legal issues regarding his legal association with the Spanish Football Federation, Messi couldn’t play the La Liga. However, things worked in his favour as soon as he acquired Spanish citizenship. He was declared eligible for playing in La Liga. He proved his mettle playing against elite teams like Real Madrid and Chelsea securing victory.

Awards and Achievements

  • FIFA World Player of the Year: 2009
  • UEFA Club Forward of the Year: 2009
  • FIFA Ballon d’Or: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015
  • UEFA Best Player in Europe: 2011, 2015
  • European Golden Shoe: 2010, 2012, 2013

As Messi’s performance graph climbed, Barcelona’s rank dropped. Messi is worshipped as an idol by the culés, the club’s supporters. He received several major injuries throughout the seasons yet he kept braving the odds. He is often compared to Diego Maradona as he imitated several of his goal styles like when he scored a goal at Copa del Rey semi-final which was known as Maradona’s Goal of the Century.

How many goals has Messi scored?

As of 2022, Messi has scored over 700 goals for club and country combined. The exact number varies with ongoing matches and competitions.

When did Messi start playing soccer?

Messi began playing soccer as a young child in Rosario. He joined the youth ranks of Newell’s Old Boys before moving to Barcelona’s La Masia academy at the age of 13.

Who is more famous, Taylor Swift or Messi?

Both Taylor Swift and Lionel Messi are global icons in their respective fields. While Messi is a football legend, Taylor Swift is a renowned pop artist. Their fame is hard to compare directly.

Is Messi considered the greatest player of all time?

Many football enthusiasts and experts regard Messi as one of the greatest players of all time. However, this is a subjective opinion and varies among fans.

Who is Messi’s idol?

Messi has often spoken about his admiration for former players like Diego Maradona and Ronaldinho. Both have influenced his love for the sport.

Where is Messi currently playing?

As of my last update in 2022, Messi was playing for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in Ligue 1. Prior to that, he spent over 20 years at FC Barcelona.

How many children does Messi have?

Lionel Messi has three children: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro. They frequently appear on his social media profiles.

Who is Messi’s best friend in football?

Messi has many close relationships in football, but he’s often seen as having a special bond with players like Sergio Agüero and Luis Suárez, among others.

Who has more goals, Messi or Ronaldo?

Both Messi and Ronaldo have scored an astonishing number of goals in their careers. As of 2022, their tallies are very close, with each surpassing 700 goals for club and country.

Why is Messi considered influential in football?

Messi’s influence stems from his exceptional skills, vision on the field, and his ability to change the outcome of a game. He’s inspired many young players globally with his style and sportsmanship.

Why is Lionel Messi famous?

Lionel Messi is famous for his exceptional football skills and achievements. He’s often regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

What position does Messi play?

Messi primarily plays as a forward, often as a right winger or a playmaking “false 9”. His versatility allows him to adapt to various attacking positions.

How did Messi become famous?

Messi’s fame grew due to his extraordinary performances at FC Barcelona and the Argentina national team. His numerous records and awards contributed to his global recognition.

How old is Messi?

Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987. As of 2023, he would be 36 years old.

Where was Messi born?

Lionel Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina. It’s the city where he began his journey in football.

What team does Messi play for?

As of my last update in 2022, Messi was playing for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He has previously spent the majority of his career at FC Barcelona.

Who is better, Messi or Ronaldo?

Both Messi and Ronaldo are football legends. The “better” debate is subjective and varies among fans and experts.

Who is the king of football?

The title “king of football” is subjective. While many consider Pelé or Maradona for historical reasons, Messi and Ronaldo are often discussed in modern contexts.

How much is Messi’s net worth?

As of 2022, Messi’s estimated net worth was in the range of $400-500 million. His earnings come from his football contracts, endorsements, and other ventures.

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