Lionel Messi, one of the world’s best footballers today, is known for his incredible skills. He was often compared to Cristiano Ronaldo, but in 2009, he helped his team defeat Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League finals, which silenced those comparisons.
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Messi’s journey to the top was remarkable. His outstanding performances in the 2005-06 season earned him a spot on Argentina’s World Cup squad. He’s a forward with amazing ball control and speed, making him one of the game’s finest players.
Barcelona benefited from his maturity, and in Argentina, he earned the nickname “the new Maradona.” It’s a tough title to carry, but he’s doing it well.
Messi’s story almost ended early due to a growth hormone deficiency. His parents couldn’t afford treatment, but Barcelona noticed his talent and covered his medical costs. He joined Barcelona’s youth ranks and became a full international by 18.
He truly came of age in the 2006-07 season, becoming the youngest Barca player to score a hat trick against Real Madrid. Despite injuries, Messi was the star that led Barcelona to the Champions League semi finals in 2008.
Then, under Pep Guardiola, Messi reached new heights. He scored 38 goals and helped Barcelona win the Spanish Cup, La Liga, and the UEFA Champions League. They even avenged their loss to Manchester United.
Messi, though a Spanish citizen, chose to represent Argentina and played through injuries in the World Cup and Copa America. He’s also known to be dating an aspiring model, Maracena Lemos.
Despite numerous injuries, Messi’s determination remains unwavering. He’s had some memorable moments, like his stunning goal against Getafe, reminiscent of Maradona’s famous goal. But he also had a forgettable debut for Argentina, getting sent off just two minutes after coming off the bench against Hungary.
Messi Leads Team To World Cup
The story of Messi needed its own unique journey, and it’s the World Cup that provided it. People tend to appreciate their heroes more when they have their flaws; it makes their journey more captivating. Throughout history, there’s always been this belief that great talents must pay a price for their gifts, a toll of sorts.
With Messi, this struggle wasn’t always visible. Moving to Europe at the age of 13 brought its challenges, but he made it all look effortless, both on and off the field. Even his childhood sweetheart joined him. Success has defined his life.
However, sometimes that level of success can leave people feeling detached. Gabriel Batistuta found comfort in losing his Argentina scoring record to what he called an “extra-terrestrial.” Carlos Mac Allister, who played alongside Maradona and whose son Alexis is now a World Cup winner with Messi, summed it up.
“Undoubtedly, Messi is the greatest in history,” he recently stated. “I’m rational. I believe in what I see. Messi’s achievements are truly remarkable.” Yet, there was still a sense that Maradona had evoked emotions in people that Messi hadn’t quite managed.
Messi won the Champions League as a teenager, scored in two more Barcelona triumphs before he turned 24, had an Olympic gold medal at 21, collected seven Ballon d’Or awards, and scored 800 goals. However, there was one significant void— the Copa America.
The World Cup became his ultimate challenge, the tournament that refused to yield to his command. This fifth and final opportunity came at a time when his abilities seemed to be on the decline. He was no longer considered the best player at his own club, let alone on the planet.
Yet, his determination to lead Argentina to victory, especially after a setback against Saudi Arabia, revealed his true struggle. There were leads lost, once to the Netherlands and twice to France. But he persevered. He conquered. It wasn’t quick or easy, which makes it all the more special.
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