Lionel Messi is often considered one of the greatest footballers in history. With a career spanning over two decades, Messi has mesmerized fans worldwide with his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring prowess. While much is known about his achievements, several fascinating facts about his life and career remain relatively unknown. Let’s dive into some intriguing details about the Argentine maestro.
Contents
- Lionel Messi: Key Details
- Lesser-Known Facts About Lionel Messi
- 1. Barcelona Signed Him on a Napkin
- 2. Growth Hormone Deficiency Battle
- 3. Almost Played for Spain
- 4. His First Contract Had an Unusual Clause
- 5. Youngest Player to Score in El Clásico
- 6. Holds the Record for Most Goals in a Calendar Year
- 7. Owns a Unique Hotel Business
- 8. His Signature Goal Celebration Has a Deep Meaning
- 9. First Footballer to Win a Laureus World Sportsman Award
- 10. His Home in Barcelona Had a No-Fly Zone
- Career Highlights
- FAQs About Lionel Messi
- 1. What is Lionel Messi’s net worth?
- 2. How many goals has Messi scored?
- 3. How many Ballon d’Or awards does Messi have?
- 4. Who is Lionel Messi’s wife?
- 5. What records does Messi hold?
- 6. Why did Messi leave Barcelona?
- 7. Does Messi have tattoos?
- 8. How many trophies has Messi won?
- 9. What is Messi’s dominant foot?
- 10. What makes Messi special?
Lionel Messi: Key Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lionel Andrés Messi Cuccittini |
| Date of Birth | June 24, 1987 |
| Birthplace | Rosario, Argentina |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $600 million (2024) |
| Girlfriend/Wife | Married to Antonela Roccuzzo |
| Children | Thiago, Mateo, Ciro |
| Parents | Jorge Messi (Father), Celia Cuccittini (Mother) |
| Siblings | Rodrigo, Matías, María Sol Messi |
| Height | 1.70m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Weight | Around 72 kg (159 lbs) |
| Position | Forward (Primarily Right Wing or False 9) |
| Playing Style | Agile, dribbling-focused, creative playmaker, lethal finisher |
| Dominant Foot | Left |
| Heading Ability | Average, but effective in key moments |
| Scoring Ability | Over 850 career goals for club and country |
| Pressure Handling | Excels under high-pressure situations |
| Major Injuries | Hamstring, calf strains, and minor fractures |
| Trophies Won | 45+ team trophies (as of 2024) |
| Ballon d’Or Awards | 8 (Record holder) |
| World Cup Titles | 1 (2022 FIFA World Cup) |
| Champions League Titles | 4 |
| Notable Records | Record holder for the most goals scored for a single club, netting 672 goals with Barcelona. |
| Tattoos | Several, including a tribute to his mother on his left shoulder |
Lesser-Known Facts About Lionel Messi
1. Barcelona Signed Him on a Napkin
In 2000, Messi’s trial with Barcelona impressed then-coach Carles Rexach so much that he wrote a contract on a napkin, sealing the deal.
2. Growth Hormone Deficiency Battle
Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency as a child, which required expensive treatment. Barcelona agreed to cover his medical expenses when they signed him.
3. Almost Played for Spain
Messi had the option to play for Spain but chose Argentina, despite strong persuasion from Spanish football officials.
4. His First Contract Had an Unusual Clause
His initial contract with Barcelona included a clause stating that if he didn’t succeed in football, he would be sent back to Argentina.
5. Youngest Player to Score in El Clásico
At 19, Messi became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in an El Clásico match against Real Madrid.
6. Holds the Record for Most Goals in a Calendar Year
In 2012, Messi scored 91 goals, surpassing Gerd Müller’s long-standing record of 85 goals in 1972.
7. Owns a Unique Hotel Business
Messi owns a chain of luxury hotels, including MiM Hotels in Spain.
8. His Signature Goal Celebration Has a Deep Meaning
Messi points to the sky after scoring, dedicating his goals to his late grandmother, Celia, who inspired his football journey.
9. First Footballer to Win a Laureus World Sportsman Award
In 2020, Messi became the first footballer to win this prestigious award, which recognizes outstanding athletic achievements.
10. His Home in Barcelona Had a No-Fly Zone
Messi’s residence in Castelldefels had an unofficial no-fly zone due to environmental regulations.
Career Highlights
Early Years and Rise to Stardom
Messi began his football journey at Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina before moving to Barcelona’s La Masia academy at 13. His rapid development saw him debut for Barcelona’s senior team at 17, quickly becoming a key player.
Golden Era at Barcelona
From 2004 to 2021, Messi led Barcelona to unprecedented success, winning ten La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies, and numerous domestic and international accolades. His legendary rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo shaped an unforgettable era in football history.
Paris Saint-Germain & Inter Miami
In 2021, due to Barcelona’s financial struggles, Messi moved to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he won two Ligue 1 titles. In 2023, he joined Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), bringing global attention to football in the U.S.
International Glory with Argentina
Messi’s international career saw many ups and downs, with heartbreaks in Copa América and World Cup finals. However, he led Argentina to Copa América glory in 2021 and the FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022, cementing his legacy.
FAQs About Lionel Messi
1. What is Lionel Messi’s net worth?
As of 2024, Messi’s net worth is estimated at $600 million, thanks to salaries, endorsements, and business ventures.
2. How many goals has Messi scored?
Messi has netted over 850 goals in his senior career for both club and country.
3. How many Ballon d’Or awards does Messi have?
Messi holds the record with eight Ballon d’Or titles.
4. Who is Lionel Messi’s wife?
Messi is married to Antonella Roccuzzo, his longtime childhood love.
5. What records does Messi hold?
Messi holds records for the most goals in a calendar year (91), most goals for a single club (672 with Barcelona), and most Ballon d’Or awards (8), among others.
6. Why did Messi leave Barcelona?
Financial difficulties at Barcelona prevented them from renewing Messi’s contract, leading to his departure in 2021.
7. Does Messi have tattoos?
Yes, Messi has several tattoos, including tributes to his mother, children, and football career.
8. How many trophies has Messi won?
Messi has won over 45 team trophies, making him the most decorated footballer in history.
9. What is Messi’s dominant foot?
Messi is predominantly left-footed but has scored numerous goals with his right foot as well.
10. What makes Messi special?
His dribbling, vision, goal-scoring ability, and consistency at the highest level make him one of the greatest footballers ever.
Lionel Messi’s football journey is an inspiring tale of resilience, talent, and determination. From overcoming medical challenges to becoming a football icon, Messi’s career is filled with remarkable achievements and records. Whether playing in Europe or the U.S., his impact on the game remains unparalleled. As he continues to amaze fans worldwide, his legacy as one of football’s all-time greats is secure.
