When Did Messi Start Playing Soccer as a Kid?
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, began his journey in the sport at a very young age. Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi showed remarkable talent and passion for the game from a very early age.
At the tender age of five, Messi joined his local club, Grandoli, where his skills quickly caught the attention of his coaches and teammates. His exceptional ball control, speed, and goal-scoring abilities were evident even at such a young age.
As Messi continued to impress with Grandoli, he caught the eye of another local club, Newell’s Old Boys. At only six years old, he joined their youth academy, known for producing talented players. It was here that Messi’s talent truly began to blossom under the guidance of experienced coaches.
Messi’s exceptional performances at Newell’s Old Boys drew the attention of one of the biggest clubs in Argentina, River Plate. At the age of ten, he made the switch to River Plate’s youth academy, La Masia. However, due to some bureaucratic hurdles and Messi’s physical condition (he was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency), the move to River Plate fell through.
In 2000, Messi’s talent caught the eye of FC Barcelona, one of the most prestigious clubs in the world. Carles Rexach, the sporting director at Barcelona, was so impressed Messi’s skills that he immediately offered him a contract on a paper napkin. At the age of 13, Messi moved to Spain with his family to join Barcelona’s famous youth academy, La Masia.
From there, Messi’s rise to stardom was meteoric. He progressed through the ranks of Barcelona’s youth teams with ease, showcasing his extraordinary dribbling, vision, and ability to score goals. In 2004, at the age of 17, Messi made his debut for Barcelona’s senior team, becoming the youngest player to ever play for the club at that time.
Messi has since gone on to achieve unparalleled success, both individually and with Barcelona. He has won numerous individual awards, including six Ballon d’Or titles, and has helped Barcelona win numerous domestic and international titles, including four Champions League trophies.
14 Common Questions about Messi’s Early Soccer Career:
1. How old was Messi when he started playing soccer?
Messi started playing soccer at the age of five when he joined his local club, Grandoli.
2. Which club did Messi join at the age of six?
Messi joined Newell’s Old Boys at the age of six.
3. Why did Messi’s move to River Plate fall through?
Messi’s move to River Plate fell through due to some bureaucratic issues and his growth hormone deficiency diagnosis.
4. When did Messi join FC Barcelona?
Messi joined FC Barcelona in 2000 at the age of 13.
5. What was the name of Barcelona’s youth academy that Messi joined?
Messi joined Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia.
6. How old was Messi when he made his debut for Barcelona’s senior team?
Messi made his debut for Barcelona’s senior team at the age of 17.
7. How many Ballon d’Or titles has Messi won?
Messi has won six Ballon d’Or titles.
8. How many Champions League trophies has Messi won with Barcelona?
Messi has helped Barcelona win four Champions League trophies.
9. What are some of Messi’s notable skills as a soccer player?
Messi is known for his exceptional ball control, speed, dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring abilities.
10. Did Messi face any challenges during his early career?
Yes, Messi was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency, which required medical treatment.
11. How did Carles Rexach offer Messi a contract?
Carles Rexach offered Messi a contract on a paper napkin after being impressed his skills.
12. What is the significance of La Masia in Messi’s career?
La Masia played a crucial role in Messi’s development as a player, helping him hone his skills and reach his full potential.
13. What age did Messi move to Spain?
Messi moved to Spain at the age of 13.
14. How would you describe Messi’s rise to stardom?
Messi’s rise to stardom was remarkable, going from a young boy playing in the streets of Rosario to becoming one of the greatest soccer players in history.
