Lionel Messi, an icon of the beautiful game, turns 38 this year, and while his on-field exploits are legendary, many fascinating aspects of his life and career remain relatively unknown. Prepare to delve into the surprising facts surrounding one of football’s greatest players of all time.
Early Life Surprises
Beyond the well-documented story of his growth hormone deficiency, Messi’s early life holds other intriguing details. For instance, his maternal grandmother, Celia Olivera Cuccittini, played a pivotal role in encouraging his football aspirations. According to Messi himself, as stated in his autobiography, “She was the one who pushed me to go to trials when I was little.” This early support was crucial in shaping his path.
A Near Miss with River Plate
Before joining Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, Messi was close to signing with River Plate, one of Argentina’s biggest clubs. However, River Plate couldn’t afford to pay for his medical treatment. This financial hurdle ultimately led him to Barcelona, forever altering football history.
Barcelona Facts You Might Not Know
While Messi’s time at Barcelona is well-chronicled, certain details often escape the spotlight. Did you know his first Barcelona contract was written on a napkin? Carles Rexach, then Barcelona’s sporting director, was so impressed with the young Messi that he drew up a contract on the spot during a lunch meeting, solidifying his commitment to the club. As reported by ESPN, the napkin is now a treasured artifact, symbolizing the beginning of an era.
The Number 10 Legacy
Although inextricably linked with the number 10 shirt, Messi initially wore number 30 for Barcelona. He later switched to number 19 before finally inheriting the iconic number 10 from Ronaldinho. This transition marked a symbolic passing of the torch within the club.
International Career Twists
Messi’s international career with Argentina has been a rollercoaster of emotions. He holds the record for most appearances and goals for his country, but success in major tournaments eluded him for many years. In 2016, following a loss in the Copa América final, Messi announced his retirement from international football, a decision that sent shockwaves through the footballing world. He later reversed his decision, leading Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Potential for Spanish Citizenship
Due to his extended stay in Spain, Messi was eligible for Spanish citizenship. Had he chosen to represent Spain, the landscape of international football could have been drastically different. He remained committed to Argentina, despite the pressure and criticism he faced.
Personal Life Insights
Beyond the pitch, Messi leads a relatively private life. He is known for his close relationship with his family, particularly his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, whom he has known since childhood. They officially married in 2017 in Rosario, Argentina, in what was dubbed the “wedding of the century” by the Argentinian media.
His Foundation and Philanthropy
Messi is actively involved in charitable work through his Leo Messi Foundation. The foundation supports children’s access to education and healthcare. According to a statement on their official website, the foundation has invested millions of dollars in various projects worldwide. This commitment highlights his dedication to making a positive impact beyond football.
Surprising Facts about Messi’s Career
Even the most ardent fans might be unaware of some obscure details from Messi’s illustrious career. For example, he once scored five goals in a single Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen in 2012, a feat rarely achieved. Furthermore, he holds the Guinness World Record for most goals scored in a calendar year, with an astounding 91 goals in 2012, according to Guinness World Records.
Messi’s Endorsements and Brand Power
His brand is one of the most recognizable in the world. He has lucrative endorsement deals with major brands like Adidas, Pepsi, and Budweiser. Forbes estimates his annual earnings from endorsements alone to be in the tens of millions of dollars, reflecting his global appeal and marketability.
Lionel Messi Facts: A Summary
As Lionel Messi celebrates his 38th birthday, these surprising facts offer a glimpse into the multifaceted life of a footballing genius. From his early struggles to his unparalleled achievements, his journey is a testament to dedication, talent, and unwavering passion. His story continues to inspire millions around the globe, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players of all time, both on and off the field.
