Lionel Messi is one of the most well-known names in the world of soccer. Fans admire his skill, dedication, and many achievements on the field.
The following article will uncover 20 fun facts about Lionel Messi that you may not know, offering a deeper look into his fascinating life and career.
From humble beginnings in Rosario, Argentina, to becoming a global icon, Messi’s journey is truly remarkable.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just curious, these facts will provide interesting insights into what makes Messi an extraordinary player.
1. Born in Rosario
Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, a city in the province of Santa Fe, Argentina. This date marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey in the world of football.
Rosario is also famous for being the birthplace of the revolutionary figure Che Guevara. Messi shares this interesting connection with one of Argentina’s most well-known historical personalities.
Growing up in Rosario, Messi showed interest in football from a young age. He played for a local club Grandoli, which was coached by his father. His early experiences in Rosario laid the foundation for a remarkable career.
Rosario is a city known for its passion for football, and this environment played a significant role in shaping Messi’s early love for the game. The city’s vibrant football culture provided the perfect backdrop for Messi’s initial development.
Messi’s family has always been a big part of his life. In Rosario, he grew up with his parents Jorge and Celia, as well as his siblings. His father worked as a factory steel worker and also coached Messi in his early years.
Rosario’s influence on Messi’s life cannot be understated. The city’s culture, combined with his family’s support, helped him develop the skills and passion that would later make him a global football icon. Learn more about Messi’s early life.
2. Nicknamed ‘La Pulga’
Lionel Messi’s nickname, La Pulga (The Flea), comes from his small stature and quick movements. Standing at just 5 feet 7 inches, his agility and speed remind people of a flea.
Messi’s older brothers started calling him La Pulguita (the little flea) when he was young. This affectionate nickname stuck with him as he grew older and became a professional soccer player.
His ability to navigate through defenders easily is another reason for this nickname. Messi’s low center of gravity and precise dribbling skills help him move quickly through tight spaces on the field.
Fans around the world know Messi as La Pulga. This name has become a symbol of his incredible talent and unique playing style.
Many believe that his nickname highlights how someone with a smaller frame can dominate the world of soccer. Messi has embraced this nickname, and it is now an essential part of his identity.
Learn more about Messi’s nickname, La Pulga, and how it started in an article from the Sporting News.
3. First contract on a napkin
Lionel Messi’s first contract with FC Barcelona is a unique piece of soccer history. This important contract wasn’t signed on official paper. Instead, it was written on a plain white restaurant napkin.
Messi was just 13 years old at the time. He and his family were having a meal with a Barcelona executive. They didn’t have any official contract documents, so they used a napkin to outline the agreement.
This napkin, written in blue ink, marked the beginning of Messi’s incredible journey with Barcelona. It recently sold for nearly $1 million at an auction.
The small, waxy-paper napkin is now considered one of the most pivotal documents in soccer history. It secured Messi’s spot with Barcelona, leading to his legendary career.
Messi’s career, which started with this simple napkin, has inspired countless fans and players around the world. This story shows how sometimes, the biggest journeys can have the humblest beginnings.
For more details, you can read about the napkin’s history and auction.
4. Number 10 jersey
Lionel Messi is famous for wearing the number 10 jersey. This number holds a special place in football history. The number 10 is often worn by the most skilled players on the team. Messi’s talent made him a perfect fit for such an iconic number.
When Messi joined Barcelona’s first team, he initially wore the number 30 jersey. Eventually, he switched to the number 10 jersey, a choice that’s now legendary. Messi’s amazing skills and numerous goals while wearing this number have made it unforgettable.
Messi’s number 10 jersey for the Argentina national team is also highly significant. Some of Argentina’s greatest players, like Diego Maradona and Juan Roman Riquelme, have worn this number. Messi continuing this tradition adds to his legacy. The number 10 jersey symbolizes excellence and creativity in football, and Messi embodies these qualities perfectly.
The number 10 jersey has become a symbol of Messi’s career. Fans around the world associate this number with his incredible football journey. Today, young players aspire to wear the number 10 jersey, hoping to follow in Messi’s footsteps. Messi’s impact on the number 10 jersey will be remembered for generations.
5. Record Ballon d’Or Wins
Lionel Messi has reached an incredible milestone by winning the Ballon d’Or eight times. This record-breaking achievement highlights his exceptional skills and consistency in football.
Messi secured his eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023, further establishing his legacy. His performance at the FIFA World Cup played a crucial role in this win, where he led Argentina to victory against France.
At 36, Messi continues to play at a high level. His achievements with both the national team and Inter Miami show that age is just a number for this amazing athlete.
Each Ballon d’Or win showcases Messi’s journey and growth as a footballer. It also emphasizes his unparalleled status in the world of football, making him a true legend of the game.
Check out more details about Messi’s incredible achievement here.
6. Won the Treble Twice
Lionel Messi has achieved something extraordinary by winning the treble twice. He did this feat with FC Barcelona in two different seasons.
The first time Messi won the treble was in the 2008-09 season. Barcelona won La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League.
Six years later, Messi and Barcelona repeated this achievement in the 2014-15 season. They again won La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League.
Messi’s accomplishment of winning the treble twice places him among a select group of players. This feat highlights his remarkable consistency and talent throughout his career. Players winning the treble even once is rare, let alone twice.
For more details, check out The New York Times article on Messi’s birthday.
His ability to help his team succeed in multiple competitions over different years is a testament to his skill and dedication. Not many players can match such an achievement.
7. Youngest to score for Barcelona
Lionel Messi became Barcelona’s youngest scorer in a competitive match. He achieved this milestone at just 17 years old.
Messi’s first senior goal came in May 2005 during a match against Albacete.
He broke the previous record held by Bojan Krkic.
This early achievement marked the beginning of an incredible journey with Barcelona.
Messi’s remarkable talent was evident from a young age.
His goal against Albacete was a sign of the greatness to come.
Fans and analysts praised his composure and skill.
Messi’s rise to prominence started with this historic goal.
He continued to break records and win titles with the club.
His impact on Barcelona and football is undeniable.
To read more about Messi’s achievements, visit 74 fun and interesting facts about Lionel Messi and 10 interesting facts about Lionel Messi.
8. Hat-trick against Real Madrid
In March 2007, Lionel Messi achieved a remarkable feat. At just 19 years old, he scored his first professional hat-trick against Real Madrid. This historic match ended in a 3-3 draw, but Messi’s performance was unforgettable.
Messi’s hat-trick against Real Madrid was significant because it was in El Clasico, one of the biggest football rivalries. Scoring three goals in such an important match was a clear demonstration of his talent and potential.
Messi’s goals in that game helped Barcelona to secure a draw. The match took place at Camp Nou, adding to the excitement for the home fans. This hat-trick marked the beginning of his legacy as one of the greatest footballers.
The hat-trick against Real Madrid stands out in Messi’s career. It set the tone for many more incredible performances to come. Fans around the world still talk about this match, and it remains one of Messi’s most celebrated achievements. For more details on this historic game, visit Lionel Messi’s first hat-trick or historic moment.
9. Top scorer in La Liga history
Lionel Messi is the all-time top scorer in La Liga history. He netted an impressive 474 goals during his time with FC Barcelona.
Messi broke the previous record by a large margin. The previous record holder was Telmo Zarra, who had scored 251 goals.
Throughout his career, Messi’s goal-scoring ability was unmatched. He consistently found the back of the net, showcasing his incredible skill and precision.
In the 2011-2012 season, Messi set a new single-season record. He scored 50 goals in La Liga, breaking all previous records for a season.
Messi’s talent and dedication helped him achieve these remarkable milestones. His ability to score from almost any position on the field amazed fans and critics alike.
Check out more facts about Lionel Messi for additional insights on his astounding career.
10. Owns a hotel chain
Lionel Messi owns a growing chain of hotels under the brand MiM Hotels. These hotels are managed by the Majestic Hotel Group. His involvement in the hospitality industry showcases his interest beyond football.
Messi’s hotel collection includes properties in popular locations like Barcelona, Ibiza, and Sitges. Each hotel offers unique and luxurious experiences. Recently, he opened a new hotel in Andorra, further expanding his portfolio.
Another notable addition is the MiM Sotogrande Club Marítimo, situated on the Costa del Sol. This hotel features 45 loft-style rooms with stunning views of the port and the Mediterranean Sea. It also boasts two restaurants and various amenities for guests.
Messi’s hotel chain is known for its emphasis on quality and service. By investing in these luxury properties, he continues to diversify his interests and build a successful business presence.
11. Wears Adidas boots
Lionel Messi has been closely linked with Adidas throughout his career. Since the start of the 2021/22 season, he has been wearing the Adidas X Speedflow.1 football boots. These boots are designed to enhance speed and agility, making them a perfect match for Messi’s playing style.
Over the years, Messi has sported several notable Adidas boots. In 2007, he wore the Gold F30.7, which became iconic due to his dazzling performances. In the 2010/11 season, he donned the F50 adizero Messi Ballon d’Or Gold/Black boots, celebrating his three consecutive Ballon d’Or wins.
To mark special occasions, Adidas has released limited-edition boots for Messi. For example, the El Retorno boots celebrate his long and successful partnership with the brand. These special editions often feature unique designs and colors, highlighting Messi’s exceptional career and achievements.
Messi’s choice of boots isn’t just about aesthetics; they are engineered to support his phenomenal skill on the pitch. From his early days to his current superstars status, Messi’s footwear has always been a significant part of his game.
You can find more details on Messi’s Adidas boots and their evolution at sites like Ultra Football and FourFourTwo.
12. Philanthropy through Leo Messi Foundation
Lionel Messi is not only known for his achievements on the soccer field, but also for his charitable work. He started the Leo Messi Foundation in 2007 to help underprivileged children.
The foundation focuses primarily on improving access to healthcare and education. Messi’s organization has supported numerous projects worldwide to ensure children have better opportunities.
In 2012, the Barça Foundation and the Leo Messi Foundation formed a partnership to promote social inclusion. They work together to help vulnerable children, especially those with serious illnesses, by providing resources and support.
The foundation’s efforts extend beyond financial support. Messi often visits hospitals to spend time with young patients, motivating them and bringing joy to their lives.
An interesting story about how the foundation began is shared by a Spanish journalist. The idea came to Messi after a visit to a hospital, where he saw the struggles of sick children and wanted to make a difference.
The Leo Messi Foundation also provides scholarships and builds new schools in impoverished areas. By doing this, Messi ensures that children get the education they need to succeed.
For more details on his philanthropic efforts, check out this page and this article.
13. Voted FIFA World Player Six Times
Lionel Messi has been voted FIFA World Player six times. This prestigious award, also known as the Ballon d’Or, recognizes the best player in the world each year.
Messi’s first win came in 2009, when he was just 22 years old. This was the start of his dominance in world football, showcasing his incredible talent.
He won the award again in 2010, 2011, and 2012. These consecutive wins highlighted his consistency and his ability to perform at the highest level.
After a brief gap, Messi claimed the award in 2015. This victory reaffirmed his position among the elite players of his generation.
Most recently, Messi won the award in 2019. This brought his total to six, making him one of the most decorated footballers in history. Each of these wins reflects his extraordinary skills and contributions to the sport.
For more details on Lionel Messi’s career and achievements, you can visit a detailed biography at Facts Crush.
14. Started Career at Newell’s Old Boys
Lionel Messi began his journey in soccer at a young age. At six years old, he joined Newell’s Old Boys, a club in Rosario, Argentina. Even as a child, his incredible talent was evident.
During his time at Newell’s, he was part of a youth team known as “The Machine of ’87.” This team was nearly unbeatable and scored almost 500 goals while Messi was with them.
Messi’s skills extended beyond just scoring goals. He would entertain fans with ball tricks during halftime of the first team’s home games, showcasing his exceptional abilities from an early age.
Newell’s Old Boys played a crucial role in Messi’s development. The club provided a foundation where he honed his talents, paving the way for a legendary career. His connection with Newell’s remains strong, as he has always been a lifelong supporter of the club.
15. Scored in five World Cups
Lionel Messi has made history by scoring in five different World Cup tournaments. This achievement shows his consistency and skill on the international stage.
Messi scored his first World Cup goal in 2006. He was just 18 years old at the time. This made him one of the youngest players to score in the tournament.
In 2010, Messi played in the World Cup held in South Africa. He didn’t score many goals that year, but he was an important part of the team.
By the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Messi was at the top of his game. He scored four goals, helping Argentina reach the final, where they finished as runners-up.
In 2018, Messi continued to add to his World Cup tally. He scored a crucial goal against Nigeria, which helped Argentina advance to the knockout stage.
Finally, in 2022, Messi scored several key goals in Qatar. This solidified his record of scoring in five World Cups and highlighted his long-lasting impact on the game.
Messi’s ability to score in five consecutive World Cups is a testament to his talent and dedication. His achievement is celebrated by fans around the world. For more interesting facts, see 74 fun and interesting facts about Lionel Messi and 100 Facts About Lionel Messi.
16. Height is 170 cm
Lionel Messi is 170 cm tall (5 feet 7 inches). This height is considered short for a professional footballer. Despite this, his skill and agility have made him one of the greatest players of all time.
Many fans know him by his nickname, “La Pulga”, which means “The Flea”. This nickname comes from his quick movements and low center of gravity.
Messi needed medical treatment to reach his current height. Without the treatment, he would have been much shorter, about 150 cm tall. Even so, his height has not stopped him from achieving remarkable success.
Messi’s height allows him to maintain an impressive balance and speed. This has helped him navigate through defenders and score countless goals. His small stature often makes it easier for him to outmaneuver taller opponents.
For more detailed facts about his height, visit this page and this one.
17. Loves Mate Tea
Lionel Messi enjoys mate tea, a popular drink in South America. This tea is made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It’s known for its energy-boosting properties.
Messi often drinks mate tea before matches. It helps him stay alert and focused. His love for mate tea is shared by many footballers, including his former teammate Luis Suarez.
Mate tea is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It contains vitamin C, magnesium, and zinc. Some people drink it to help with chronic headaches, depression, and fatigue.
In Argentina, it’s common to share mate tea with friends and family. Messi’s pre-match ritual includes this tradition. It’s a way for him to connect with his roots and teammates.
Discover more about Messi’s love for mate tea from this YouTube video and learn about the health benefits of yerba mate here.
18. Left-footed genius
Lionel Messi is known for his incredible left foot. Many consider it his greatest weapon. With his left foot, he has scored extraordinary goals and delivered impressive assists.
Unlike many players, Messi relies on his left foot for most of his play. His left foot provides him with precise control and power. This skill sets him apart from others on the field.
He dribbles past defenders with ease. Messi’s left foot allows him to navigate tight spaces and create opportunities. His unique ability often leaves defenders unable to keep up.
Messi’s free kicks are another showcase of his left foot’s brilliance. He can curve the ball around the wall and into the goal. His accuracy and power from set-pieces demonstrate his exceptional talent.
Fans and analysts admire how he uses his left foot to perform remarkable feats. His left-footed shots are often unstoppable. This has made him one of the most feared attackers in football.
For more insights into Messi’s skill, check out these striking facts about Lionel Messi and his achievements.
19. First goal at Camp Nou
Lionel Messi scored his first official goal for FC Barcelona at Camp Nou during the 2004/05 season.
The goal was assisted by Ronaldinho, bringing much excitement to fans. This moment marked the beginning of Messi’s legendary career at Barcelona.
It wasn’t just any goal. It was a moment that fans would never forget, highlighting Messi’s potential from early on.
Messi’s first goal at Camp Nou showcased his impressive skills and set the stage for many more memorable goals.
Fans in the stadium were thrilled, and the goal is still fondly remembered.
Witnessing Messi’s first goal at Camp Nou was a special occasion for those present.
It was a glimpse of what was to come from one of the greatest football players ever.
Read more about Messi’s milestones.
20. Switched to PSG in 2021
In August 2021, Lionel Messi made a surprising move from FC Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). This marked the end of his 21-year career at Barcelona, where he had become one of the greatest football players in history.
Messi’s transfer to PSG was huge news. Fans and media across the globe were shocked and excited to see him join the French club. His arrival at PSG increased the team’s social media following by millions, showing his immense popularity.
In his first season at PSG, Messi scored six goals. Five of these goals came in the UEFA Champions League, while one was scored in Ligue 1. Despite his usually high performance, the start of 2022 was tough for him as he missed several matches after contracting COVID-19.
Messi’s switch to PSG was also notable because it was a free transfer. PSG signed him after his contract with Barcelona ended, making Messi one of the most high-profile free agents in football history.
His presence at PSG created a formidable attacking line-up alongside stars like Neymar and Kylian Mbappé. This move was a defining moment and added a new chapter to his illustrious career.
