Who is Lionel Messi? Check His Stats, Birthday, Career & Achievements

Lionel Andrés Messi popularly called as "Leo Messi" is one of the supremely talented and highly renowned figures in football. Born on 24 June 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, his contributions in the football field has been nothing less than a history. His terrific dribbling and goal-scoring are always a delight to watch for his captivated fans globally. After winning several football accolades such as FIFA World Player of the Year, FIFPRO World 11 and the FIFA World Cup for Argentina in 2022, he consistently defied expectations. From his Argentine roots to his legendary time at FC Barcelona and his current venture in the USA, find out about his early life and career in this blog.

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Early Life

Messi's talent shone from a tender age, playing for local clubs coached by his father. At the tender age of 6, he joined Newell's Old Boys where he reportedly scored nearly 500 youth goals. Because of his unparalleled skills, he was soon known as the "Machine of 87" due to his birth year. Not many are aware of the fact that during his growth years, at the age of 10, he battled with a growth hormone deficiency which could be a threat to his career. With his family unable to afford treatment, FC Barcelona offered to cover his medical bills if he joined their La Masia academy. And just at the age of 13, Messi made the life-changing move to Spain.

Career

Messi's professional journey began with FC Barcelona's senior team in 2004, aged 17, initiating an unprecedented 17-year tenure. With Barcelona, he won a club-record 35 trophies, including 10 La Liga titles and 4 UEFA Champions League crowns. Moreover, he became their all-time leading scorer with 672 goals and he holds La Liga records for a total of 474 goals. After an emotional Barcelona exit, Messi joined the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021, securing 2 Ligue 1 titles. After this in 2023, his groundbreaking move to MLS side Inter Miami CF instantly transformed the club. This led them to the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 MLS Supporters' Shield and he proved his immense impact across any league.

International Acclaim with Argentina: Messi's international career culminated in ultimate glory. Following youth triumphs including the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship and a 2008 Olympic gold, he finally lifted the Copa América trophy in 2021 (and 2024), ending Argentina's long drought. The pinnacle arrived in 2022, when he captained Argentina to FIFA World Cup victory in Qatar, fulfilling a lifelong dream and earning the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

Awards and Records

Lionel Messi's accolades are truly staggering and remarkable as he has a record of 8 Ballon d'Or awards between 2009-2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023, and a record 6 European Golden Shoes. He's accumulated over 850 senior career goals and over 380 career assists. With 46 collective trophies, he stands as the most decorated player in football history.

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Key Stats About Lionel Messi:

• Lionel Messi’s birthday is on 24 June 1987.

• He made history by winning a total of 8 Ballon d’Or during his football career till now.

• Messi has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and Inter Miami CF.

• Lionel Messi has won one FIFA World Cup in the year 2022.

Lionel Messi's career is a testament to extraordinary talent, relentless dedication, and an unwavering passion for the beautiful game, inspiring millions and redefining what's possible on the football pitch.