Lionel Messi is arguably the greatest footballer in history. However, his path to glory was not easy. For instance, doctors diagnosed him with a serious medical condition as a child. Furthermore, a team director wrote his first contract on a disposable napkin. Consequently, his journey inspires millions around the world. Therefore, get ready to learn about the genius from Rosario. You will admire his resilience.
Lionel Messi
Carles Rexach wrote Messi’s first contract on a napkin. Specifically, the Barcelona director signed it in a cafeteria because he had no paper.
Doctors diagnosed him with a growth hormone deficiency. Consequently, his height was significantly below average for his age.
FC Barcelona agreed to pay for his medical treatments. Therefore, his family moved to Spain so he could join the youth academy.
He holds Italian citizenship alongside his Argentine passport. Actually, his father’s family originally came from the Italian city of Ancona.
Lionel Messi received a red card in his international debut. Shockingly, the referee ejected him after only 43 seconds on the field.
He scored 91 goals in a single calendar year. In fact, he broke the legendary record of Gerd Müller in 2012.
He married his childhood sweetheart, Antonela. Touchingly, he has known her since he was just five years old.
Messi loves Milanesa Napolitana. Basically, this favorite dish consists of breaded meat topped with cheese and tomato sauce.
He holds the record for the most European Golden Shoes. Impressively, he has won the award for top scorer six times.
He won Olympic Gold for Argentina in 2008. However, Barcelona initially refused to let him travel to Beijing for the tournament.
He owns a theme park in China. Specifically, the Messi Experience Park offers visitors an immersive look at his life.
He dedicates his goals to his late grandmother. Usually, he points two fingers to the sky to honor her memory after scoring.
Lionel Messi wore number 30 at Paris Saint-Germain. Significantly, he chose this number because he wore it during his Barcelona debut.
Pope Francis was a massive fan of his. Reportedly, the Pontiff keeps a signed Messi jersey in the Vatican collection.
Finally, he conquered the World Cup in 2022. Thus, he completed his trophy collection and cemented his legacy forever.
