For How Long Did Lionel Messi Play at Newell’s Old Boys? Revisiting His Pre-Barcelona Career

On 15th February, in the match between Inter Miami and Newell’s Old Boys, the spotlight is bound to fall on Lionel Messi. This fixture represents more than a mere sporting event for the Argentine maestro. It encapsulates a sentimental journey from where his illustrious soccer career took root to his current team.

Messi began garnering significant recognition while playing at Barcelona in his early years. But his talent at The Lepers had already started captivating hearts. Therefore, we invite you to reflect upon the foundational period of La Pulga’s career at Newell’s Old Boys.

The beginning of Lionel Messi’s superstardom with Newell’s Old Boys

The Barcelona legend has long harbored an admiration for Newell’s Old Boys, a fascination that was sparked in his formative years. His father, Jorge Messi, often accompanied him to the stadium, granting him firsthand experience of the exhilarating performances by the local side. In 1994, at just six years old, Messi embarked on his journey to excellence by joining the youth academy of this esteemed club.

Here, he honed his skills and passion over the course of six impactful years. However, adversity struck when he was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency at age 10. Messi’s father’s health insurance only covered two years of treatment. To provide additional support, Newell’s initially agreed to assist with the financial burden but later went back on their word.

Despite these challenges, Lionel Messi’s talent continued to shine through, and he scored an impressive 234 goals in just 176 games for the Newell’s Old Boys. Subsequently, in September 2000, our young aspirant sought out new shores undertaking a trial with FC Barcelona before officially enrolling into La Masia Academy.

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These pivotal events have led us to the present day, where the Argentine stands atop the soccer world as one of the greatest players of all time. He has achieved numerous accolades, such as winning a World Cup and 8 Ballon d’Or awards. However, despite these illustrious accolades, Lionel Messi’s aspiration remains linked with his boyhood club.

La Pulga wants a return to his boyhood club

On multiple occasions before, the ex-PSG superstar has communicated his longing to reunite with Newell’s Old Boys. In 2019, when asked if he would like to join ‘La Lepra’, Lionel Messi confidently stated, “Yes. That’s what I’ve always said, haven’t I?”

Also, reports from The Mail, suggest that Messi will conclude his career at his childhood club once his contract expires in America. As it stands, the 36-year-old’s existing contract with Inter Miami concludes in 2025. Consequently, only time can tell whether or not Lionel Messi will fulfill his dream of once again wearing the red and black jersey.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.

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