The Iconic Number 10 Lionel Messi turns 36 today. Here is a small look at his Illustrious career

Lionel Messi

After a prolonged wait, Lionel Messi finally realized his lifelong dream of winning the FIFA World Cup, a coveted title that completes his impressive collection of trophies. Messi’s exceptional talent and achievements earned him the distinction of being the first footballer to win the Golden Ball award twice.

During his initial Golden Ball triumph, Argentina had to settle for the runners-up position following their defeat to Germany. However, the scenario changed in Qatar last year. Messi, the extraordinary talent from Rosario, triumphantly lifted the World Cup trophy that had eluded him for so long.

Messi’s football journey commenced at the tender age of five when he joined FC Grandoli, a team managed by his father. He later transitioned to Newell’s Old Boys, where he spent a significant part of his childhood before embarking on a new chapter at the age of 13 by moving to Barcelona. Messi faced challenges related to a growth deficiency disorder, necessitating expensive medical treatment. Recognizing his exceptional abilities, Barcelona generously pledged to cover all his medical expenses.

Since his enrollment in the La Masia Academy, Messi’s trajectory has been unstoppable. In a mere three years, he earned his maiden call-up to the Barcelona senior team, marking a pivotal moment in his career. His Barcelona debut took place in a thrilling derby encounter against Espanyol. The same year also witnessed Messi’s first appearance donning the Argentina jersey, as he featured in two friendlies for the U-20 team.

From childhood beginnings to record-breaking achievements, Lionel Messi’s remarkable journey continues to captivate the football world with his awe-inspiring talent and unwavering determination.

Major Honors of Lionel Messi (by Club, Country and Individual)

FC Barcelona
* UEFA Champions League: 2005–06, 2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15
* UEFA Super Cup: 2009, 2011, 2015 FIFA Club World Cup: 2009, 2011, 2015
* La Liga: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2017–18, 2018–19 * Copa del Rey: 2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2020–21
* Supercopa de España: 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2018
Paris Saint-Germain
Ligue 1: 2021–22, 2022–23
* Trophée des Champions: 2022
Argentina U20
* FIFA World Youth Championship: 2005
Argentina U23
* Summer Olympics: 2008
Argentina
* FIFA World Cup: 2022
* Copa América: 2021
* CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions: 2022
Individual Awards
* FIFA Ballon d’Or: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021
* FIFA World Player of the Year: 2009
* The Best FIFA Men’s Player: 2019 & 2022
* European Golden Shoe: 2009–10, 2011–12, 2012–13, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2018–19
* FIFA World Cup Golden Ball: 2014 & 2022
* FIFA World Cup Silver Boot: 2022
* FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2009 & 2011
* FIFA U-20 World Cup Golden Ball: 2005
* FIFA U-20 World Cup Golden Boot: 2005
* UEFA Men’s Player of the Year Award: 2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15
* Copa América Best Player: 2015 & 2021
* Copa América Top Goalscorer: 2021
* La Liga Best Player: 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2011–12, 2012–13, 2014–15
* Pichichi Trophy: 2009−10, 2011–12, 2012−13, 2016–17, 2017−18, 2018–19, 2019–20, 2020–21
* Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: 2020 & 2023
* Argentine Footballer of the Year: 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022