Lionel Messi. Overview and main events
Overview and main events
Lionel Andrés Messi, commonly known as Leo Messi, is an Argentine professional footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi has had a storied career marked by numerous records, accolades, and significant milestones.
June 24, 1987
Birth
Lionel Andrés Messi was born in Rosario, Santa Fe Province, Argentina, to Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini. He was the third of four children.
Age 8 (1995)
Joining Newell's Old Boys
Messi joined the youth system of Newell's Old Boys, a local football club in Rosario. He quickly made a name for himself, scoring over 500 goals in six years with the team.
February 2001
Move to FC Barcelona
At the age of 13, Messi and his family relocated to Barcelona, Spain, after FC Barcelona agreed to cover his medical treatments for a growth hormone deficiency. He joined FC Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia.
October 16, 2004
Professional Debut
Messi made his competitive debut for FC Barcelona against Espanyol in La Liga at the age of 17. He became the youngest player to represent Barcelona in an official competition.
May 1, 2005
First Senior Goal
Messi scored his first senior goal for FC Barcelona against Albacete, assisted by Ronaldinho, becoming the youngest-ever scorer for the club at the time.
2008-2009
First Treble and First Ballon d'Or
Messi helped Barcelona achieve the first treble in Spanish football history, winning La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and the Copa del Rey. He also won his first Ballon d'Or award, marking the beginning of a streak of four consecutive Ballon d'Or wins.
2012
Record-Breaking Season
Messi set multiple records, including the most goals scored in a calendar year with 91 goals in club and international play. He broke Gerd Müller's 39-year-old record for single-season goals in a major European football league.
August 5, 2021
Transfer to Paris Saint-Germain
After 17 seasons with FC Barcelona, Messi transferred to Paris Saint-Germain due to Barcelona's financial constraints and La Liga regulations. He played for PSG for two seasons, winning two Ligue 1 titles.
July 2023
Joining Inter Miami
Messi signed with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, marking a new chapter in his career in the United States. He also captains the Argentina national team.
2022
FIFA World Cup Victory
Messi led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup title, mirroring the achievement of his compatriot Diego Maradona in 1986. Argentina won the tournament after defeating France in the final, with Messi being instrumental throughout the competition.
