Lionel Messi’s journey from a young boy kicking a ball in Rosario to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time is nothing short of extraordinary.
The World Cup winner, who started playing football in his hometown, likely never imagined the heights he would reach. Even at the age of 13, when he left Argentina for Barcelona, the idea of becoming a legend of the sport seemed distant.
Today, Messi stands as an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and the most decorated player in history, with 44 trophies to his name. Reflecting on his incredible career in an interview with Juan Pablo Varsky, Messi expressed a sense of destiny in his achievements:
“It’s very clear to me that I was born like this because God chose me. It was a gift he gave me. I tried to take advantage of it, I did everything possible to squeeze the most out of it. The truth is, although I did many things, I did nothing to become the player that I already was when I was little.”
Messi’s prodigious talent was evident early on. While playing in the youth system of Newell’s Old Boys, his exceptional skills drew attention. He recalls:
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“From what was being said, I was always different. People came to watch me. I didn’t realise it, but I began to understand that as I grew older. I don’t really know the moment when I realised it.:
“When I was 3 or 4 years old, I was not aware of the World Cup and all the titles that were being played. I simply played because I loved the ball… it was my hobby.”
“I spent all the time kicking [the ball] and looking for someone to play with. I was born with it. I loved soccer, like most Argentines, from a very young age. I always tried to have fun, like I did from day one.”
Messi’s career has been nothing short of phenomenal. His record-breaking spell at Barcelona solidified his status as a football icon.
In 2021, he made a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain before joining MLS side Inter Miami, a transfer influenced by Manchester United and England legend David Beckham.
Despite the changes in his club affiliations, Messi’s passion for the game remains undiminished. Now, he sets his sights on another Copa America crown with Argentina, continuing to chase glory and add to his already impressive legacy.