Born on June 24, 1987, Lionel Andrés “Leo” Messi is an Argentine professional football player who plays as a forward and as captain for both Major League Soccer club Inter Miami and the Argentina national team.
Among the all-time greats, Messi has won a record eight Ballon d’Or honours, a record six European Golden Shoes, and a record eight FIFA World Player of the Year accolades.
He won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 Copa América with his nation. Messi is a prolific goal scorer and inventive playmaker who now owns the La Liga records for most assists (192), hat-tricks (36), and goals (474). Of all the South American men, he has the most international goals (106). Messi has the most goals for a single club (672) and has scored over 800 goals in his senior career for both club and country.
Lionel Messi Bio
- Full Name: Lionel Andrés Messi
- Date of Birth: 24 June 1987 (age 36)
- Place of Birth: Rosario, Argentina
- Professional Debut: 2004
- Jersey Number: 10
- Position: Forward, attacking midfielder
Early Years at Barcelona:
In the 2004–05 season, Lionel Messi made his debut for FC Barcelona at the age of 17, becoming the youngest player and goal scorer in La Liga. His early performances showcased his exceptional talent and versatility on the field.
Rise to Dominance:
By 2008, Messi emerged as one of the most dominant players globally, finishing as a runner-up in the Ballon d’Or voting. He played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s historic treble-winning season in 2008–09, securing his first Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards.
Record-Breaking Success:
Messi’s career continued to soar, breaking numerous records and winning multiple Ballon d’Or titles. He led Barcelona to several domestic and international titles, including La Liga championships and UEFA Champions League triumphs. Messi’s remarkable goal-scoring prowess and playmaking abilities made him a football icon.
Transition to PSG and Inter Miami:
In 2021, Messi signed with Paris St.-Germain (PSG), where he continued to excel, winning the Ligue 1 title. In 2023, he joined Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), embarking on a new chapter in his illustrious career.
International Career:
Early Success and Olympic Gold:
Messi represented Argentina in various international tournaments, winning the FIFA World Youth Championship in 2005 and securing a gold medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
World Cup Performances:
He played a pivotal role in Argentina’s World Cup campaigns, notably leading the team to the final in 2014 and winning the Golden Ball award despite their loss to Germany. Messi continued to shine in subsequent World Cups, guiding Argentina to the finals in 2022 and winning the tournament’s Golden Ball for the second time.
Copa América Triumphs:
Messi’s international success also included victories in the Copa América, where he played a crucial role in Argentina’s triumphs in 2021 and 2023, earning the Golden Ball award for his outstanding performances.
Legacy and Achievements:
Throughout his career, Messi’s remarkable achievements and contributions to both club and country solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His unparalleled skill, vision, and passion for the game left an indelible mark on the sport’s history.
Lionel Messi career stats:
Club stats:
FC Barcelona Atletic: 6 Goals and 1 Assists from 22 matches
FC Barcelona: 672 Goals and 303 Assists from 778 matches
Paris Saint Germain: 32 Goals and 35 Assists from 75 matches
Inter Miami CF: 22 Goals and 11 Assists from 24 matches
International stats:
Argentina: 122 Goals from 203 matches. (Combined stats of U-20, U-23 and senior team)
Lionel Messi’s Personal Life and Family:
Deep Family Bond:
Lionel Messi shares a profound connection with his immediate family, particularly his mother Celia, whose image is tattooed on his left shoulder. His family plays a significant role in managing his work life, with his older brother Rodrigo overseeing his daily schedule and publicity, and his father Jorge serving as his agent since Messi was 14.
The Leo Messi Foundation, dedicated to philanthropic efforts, is overseen by his mother and another brother, Matas, who handle his personal and professional affairs in Rosario.
Lionel Messi’s Wife:
Relationship with Antonela Roccuzzo:
Since 2008, Messi has been in a relationship with Antonela Roccuzzo, a native of Rosario. Their connection dates back to childhood, as Roccuzzo is the cousin of Messi’s close friend, Lucas Scaglia, who also played football. They initially kept their relationship private, with Messi publicly acknowledging it in an interview in January 2009. Their relationship was made public a month later during a carnival in Sitges following the Barcelona-Espanyol derby.
Family and Children:
Messi and Roccuzzo have three sons together: Thiago, born in 2012, Mateo, born in 2015, and Ciro, born in 2018. The couple tied the knot on June 30, 2017, in a lavish ceremony held at the Hotel City Center in Rosario, Argentina.
Lionel Messi’s Salary and Net Worth:
Football Salary:
Lionel Messi is renowned as one of the most prominent footballers globally, earning a substantial salary from his football career. His annual salary amounts to nearly $75 million USD, placing him among the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Brand Endorsements:
In addition to his football earnings, Messi has established himself as a successful brand ambassador, notably for sportswear giant Adidas. His endorsement deals contribute significantly to his overall income and global recognition.
Net Worth:
With a staggering estimated net worth of $650 million USD, Lionel Messi stands as the wealthiest footballer on the planet. His immense earnings from football contracts, endorsements, and other ventures solidify his status as one of the most financially successful athletes in history.
Lionel Messi: FAQs
Question: How much is Lionel Messi worth?
Answer: Lionel Messi’s net worth is reported to be over $650 million USD, making him one of the wealthiest football players globally.
Question: Does Lionel Messi speak English?
Answer: While Lionel Messi primarily speaks Spanish, he has a basic understanding of English but is not fluent in the language.
Question: How much does Lionel Messi make a year?
Answer: Lionel Messi earns a salary of nearly 5.4 crores USD per year, making him one of the highest-paid football players in the world.
Question: Who is better, Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi?
Answer: The debate over who is better between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi is subjective and often depends on personal preferences. Both players have had extraordinary careers, achieving numerous records and accolades, and have their unique styles and strengths.
Question: Is Lionel Messi leaving Inter Miami?
Answer: As of the latest information available, there is no indication that Lionel Messi is leaving Inter Miami. Messi joined the club in 2023 and signed a contract through the 2025 MLS season.