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Michael Jordan [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/micheal-jordan/] has enjoyed a global fandom beyond imagination. The legendary NBA star has been a role model for millions around the globe. His influence extends far beyond basketball, garnering immense respect from athletes across various sports. But who would have thought that one of Jordan’s biggest fans is none other than soccer icon Lionel Messi [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/messi/]? In fact, just days after expressing his desire to take a picture with MJ, the Argentinian superstar paid a special homage to the American legend. This came after La Pulga was invited on the latest episode of the ‘Clank!’ podcast, hosted by renowned Argentine journalist Juan Pablo Varsky. While the podcast is set to be released in the coming days, a small teaser of the interview was released, featuring a picture of Messi alongside Varsky shared on the internet. What stood out in the picture was that both Messi and Varsky posed in a manner reminiscent of Jordan. They recreated His Airness’ iconic celebration, arms stretched wide in the air, reminiscent of his glory days. This is certainly quite a heartwarming tribute from Messi towards Jordan. Notably, this comes just days after he expressed his admiration to get a picture clicked with the 6x NBA Champion with the Chicago Bulls. Speaking to ESPN Argentina, he said, “From the sports world, I would like to have a photo with [Michael] Jordan – meet him and have a photo with him.” Notably, the Inter Miami star has met with a host of basketball names like Jimmy Butler and LeBron James, who came to catch the 36-year-old in action. But he has yet to cross paths with Jordan in his time so far in the United States. Interestingly, Messi’s long-term rival has lived the moment he wishes for! CRISTIANO RONALDO’S MICHAEL JORDAN MOMENT THAT LIONEL MESSI DREAMS OF! While Lionel Messi looks desperate to meet Michael Jordan, Cristiano Ronaldo [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/] is way ahead of the former Barcelona man on this front. The Al Nassr star met with the basketball icon back in 2019 while enjoying a vacation. At that time, CR7 used to play for Juventus and the former Real Madrid star didn’t miss the opportunity to share the iconic moment with Jordon on Instagram. [https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/ronaldo-jordan.png] Certainly, Messi would be hoping to meet the Chicago Bulls legend one day and fulfill his long-time dream. For now, the former PSG superstar is focused on the 2024 Copa America that is just around the corner. Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s UEFA EURO 2024 journey has also kicked off. All eyes remain fixed on these two undisputable GOATs of the game. 

After expressing a desire to take a picture with the NBA legend, Lionel Messi attempts to win Michael Jordan over with a special homage.

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Lionel Messi Tries to Win Michael Jordan Over With Special Homage After Expressing Desire to Take a Picture With the NBA Legend

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<h3 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center"><strong>Cristiano Ronaldo: Net Worth 2024, Personal Life, Career, and Achievements</strong></h3>
Cristiano Ronaldo is possibly one of the greatest players of all time. While the debate regarding his 'greatest of all time' status will seemingly never come to an end, the fact that the Portuguese soccer legend has won the Ballon d'Or five times during his career gives him quite the upper hand.

While starting his career at his boyhood club, Sporting CP, the soccer veteran is currently making a difference in Saudi Arabia, at Al-Nassr. Between Sporting CP and Al-Nassr, Ronaldo established a healthy and long-lasting legacy at Real Madrid, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/football/premier-league-2019-20/manchester-united/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Manchester United</a>, and Juventus.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth 2024</strong></h2>
Cristiano Ronaldo's net worth is estimated to be around $500 million. The mighty Portuguese soccer legend is currently earning a jaw-dropping wage at Al-Nassr. Ronaldo is reportedly cashing out $74 million per season as just his base salary. His earnings will potentially rise to $207 million when commercial deals, image rights, and ambassadorial roles are kept in mind. This added to the fact that Forbes named Cristiano Ronaldo as the first active team sport athlete to surpass $1 Billion in career earnings back in 2022 is a sign that Ronaldo's 2024 net worth might just exceed the $500 Million mark.

The most prominent investment that drives his net worth upward is in the chain of hotels. The soccer veteran has been on board with the Pestana Group while building hotels in Madrid, Lisbon, New York, Marrakesh, and Funchal. Apart from that, he has an ever-famous lifetime deal running with Nike.

Cristiano Ronaldo has also endorsed brands like Herbalife, MTG, Clear, Garena Free Fire, Louis Vuitton, Live Score, TAG Heuer, and many more. Apart from that, he also drives forward his personal brand that caters to the fitness and clothing market.
<h2 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center"><strong>Cristiano Ronaldo's early life and his family</strong></h2>
Cristiano Ronaldo was born to José Dinis Aveiro and Maria Dolores dos Santos. He is their youngest child. He grew up in a catholic home sharing a single room with all his siblings. Ronaldo has one elder brother, Hugo and two older sisters. His eldest sister, Elma, describes herself on Instagram as a digital influencer. Apart from that, the two of them still share a very healthy and strong bond with the soccer star.

Ronaldo only completed his schooling until the sixth grade. At the age of 14, he was seemingly hard-destined towards soccer as a career. Unfortunately, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a heart condition when he was just 15. After undergoing successful surgery for his tachycardia, he quickly recovered in order to live his dream.
<figure class="jsx-b9c5e7fc3c08d611">
<div class="jsx-181688575 es-image-loader-aspect-ratio"><img id="img-tag-node--img-loader-0" class="jsx-181688575" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Cristiano-Ronaldo-Manchester-United.jpg" /></div>
<figcaption>
<p id="node---66292-figcap">via Imago</p>

</figcaption></figure>
Ronaldo played his first bits of soccer for Clube Desportivo Nacional of Madeira. He then moved to an area near Lisbon and ended up joining Sporting CP's youth academy. The 6ft 1in striker originally started off on the ring wing. His ability to be able to handle the ball with both feet still mesmerizes opponents to date.
<h2 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center">Cristiano Ronaldo and his mighty football career</h2>
Within a few years of joining Sporting CP, Ronaldo quickly rose up the youth ranks. On September 2002, he made his debut for Sporting in the Primeira Liga against Braga. Sir Alex Ferguson was thoroughly impressed by the raw Portuguese talent and signed him in 2003 for Manchester United. During his time at Manchester United, he won three Premier League Titles from 2006 to 2009, subsequently aligning with the club's widely accepted golden era.

Ronaldo's tenure at Manchester United was decorated with many goal-scoring records. However, his most acclaimed feat was when he scored 42 goals in the 2007-2008 season and secured a place on the best wingers in football history list. However, that was all for Ronaldo and Manchester United. The star player moved on to Real Madrid in 2009 with a transfer fee of €94,000,000 ($103,061,586.97). The greatest at that time.

Barring a short span at Juventus F.C, Ronaldo circled back to Manchester United. However, his homecoming to the United could not reap the same fruits as his debut. Ronaldo's second stint at United was met with a mutual contract termination in November 2022. This would make way for the CR7's foray into Al Nassr FC. Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has scored his second hat trick for the club and 34 goals in the Saudi Pro League.

While his club career is a marvel in its own right, Ronaldo's achievements as the captain of the Portugal national team are not far behind. The Portuguese Forward won his first cup with Portugal in 2016 in the Euro Cup and then later in the 2018-19 National League Tournament.
<h2 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center">All other success Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved with Portugal's national team</h2>
Despite just a single piece of silverware at the Euros in 2016, Ronaldo has scored 128 goals in 205 appearances for his country. However, he has achieved quite a few personal milestones while playing for Portugal. He has scored the most international goals in soccer history and is the leading goal scorer in EURO and well, world history. In 2017, he scored 37 goals for his national side, the most by any player for his country.
<figure class="jsx-b9c5e7fc3c08d611">
<div class="jsx-1669353865 es-image-loader-aspect-ratio"><img id="img-tag-node--img-loader-0" class="jsx-1669353865" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1005420472h.jpg" /></div>
<figcaption>
<p id="node---44368-figcap">via Imago</p>

</figcaption></figure>
Recently, he became the only player to score at five consecutive FIFA World Cups. He has the peculiar record of being the oldest player to score at a FIFA World Cup. He also holds the record for scoring against the most national teams, throughout his career.
<h2 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center">Cristiano Ronaldo's club career and various achievements</h2>
Ronaldo has played for quite a few clubs throughout his career, namely Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr. At the club level, the 38-year-old has won the Champions League five times. He has also won three Premier League titles, two La Liga titles, and two Serie A titles.

At club soccer, the mighty Ronaldo has scored 710 goals and 203 assists in 959 appearances. He is the all-time top scorer in Real Madrid history with 450 goals. At Manchester United, Ronaldo scored a total of 145 goals. At Juventus, he scored 81 goals. Currently, the soccer veteran is making a name for himself at Al-Nassr after scoring 30 goals in 36 games already including two hattricks.
<h2 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center">All the off-field awards claimed by Cristiano Ronaldo</h2>
Keeping in mind his long-lasting legacy, Ronaldo has won the prestigious Ballon d'Or five times. He has won the trophy in 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017. Apart from that, he has won the best FIFA Men's Player of the Year on two occasions in 2016 and 2017. He was the FIFA World Player of the Year in 2008.
<figure class="jsx-b9c5e7fc3c08d611">
<div class="jsx-2464436611 es-image-loader-aspect-ratio"><img id="img-tag-node--img-loader-0" class="jsx-2464436611" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0026781936h.jpg" /></div>
<figcaption>
<p id="node---18696-figcap">via Imago</p>

</figcaption></figure>
He has won the European Golden Shoe in 2008, 2011, 2014, and 2015. Ronaldo won the Premier League Player of the Season in 2007 and 2008. Similarly, he won La Liga's best player award after the 2013-14 season. Serie A crowned the soccer veteran the Player of the Year in 2019 and 2020. Additionally, he won the Premier League Golden Boot for his prime 2007-08 season at Manchester United. As he entered a new chapter of his career with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo cemented another milestone by taking home the Maradona Award for Best Goal Scorer owing to his 54 goals throughout the year.
<h2 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center">Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend and kids</h2>
Cristiano Ronaldo met his long-time girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez in 2016. The two of them met at a Gucci store. At that time, Georgina was a salesgirl at a Gucci store in Madrid. Seemingly, there was a spark between the two of them immediately. They then met again at a Dolce and Gabbana event, a few days later. The rest was history.

The next year, they announced the birth of their baby daughter, Alana. Several years later, the celebrity couple announced that they were expecting twins. However, one of them tragically passed away shortly after birth. In <em>I Am Georgina</em>: Season Two, Georgina described that time as the worst moment of her life.
<figure class="jsx-b9c5e7fc3c08d611">
<div class="jsx-665263784 es-image-loader-aspect-ratio"><img id="img-tag-node--img-loader-0" class="jsx-665263784" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0202849919h.jpg" /></div>
<figcaption>
<p id="node---31819-figcap">via Imago</p>

</figcaption></figure>
Prior to meeting Rodriguez, the soccer veteran already had three children. The first one of them is Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. He was born on June 17, 2010, in America. The mighty Ronaldo has still kept the mother's identity a mystery after gaining full custody of his child.

In 2017, Ronaldo fathered twins in the United States via a surrogate mother with the twins reportedly named, Eva and Matteo. In 2017, he had his first child with Georgina Rodriguez, a girl named Alana Martina. Later in 2021, the couple announced they were pregnant with twins. However, Ronaldo and Rodriguez bore the loss of losing a child while also welcoming another in 2022, a girl named Bella.

As of now, the Portuguese soccer legend has not announced anything regarding marriage. Once, during a conversation with Piers Morgan, he mentioned that he wasn't thinking about it. Technically, Ronaldo is breaking the law in Saudi Arabia. In the territory, it was illegal to live under the same roof if not married.

However, reports then suggested that the authorities in Saudi Arabia have turned a blind eye in this case, despite him being a top Al-Nassr player considering Cristiano Ronaldo is a foreigner.
<h2 class="jsx-8c85ea4b4bcf4dfc" style="text-align: center">Cristiano Ronaldo's foundations and charity</h2>
Cristiano Ronaldo supports the likes of UNICEF, Save the Children, AIDS Still Required, World Vision, and Cahonas Scotland among others. His most famous act of donation was when he raised $83,000 from his soccer boots and jersey for the operation of a 10-month-old baby.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Name</td>
<td>Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Born</td>
<td>February 5, 1985</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Place of Birth</td>
<td>Funchal, Madeira, Portugal</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nationality</td>
<td>Portuguese</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Education</td>
<td>School</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parents</td>
<td>Jose Dinis Aveiro and Maria Dolores</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Height</td>
<td>1.87 m (6ft 2in)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>85 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Girlfriend</td>
<td>Georgina Rodriguez</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kids</td>
<td>Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, Matteo, Eva, Alana, Bella, Angel</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Social Media</td>
<td><a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.facebook.com/Cristiano/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.instagram.com/cristiano/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.cristianoronaldo.com/#cr7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Website</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Cristiano Ronaldo

Find the latest information on football maestro Cristiano Ronaldo, his net worth in 2024, his achievements at clubs, investments, and more on EssentiallySports.

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<h2 style="text-align: center"><b>Lionel Messi: Net Worth 2024, Personal Life, Career, and Endorsements</b></h2>
Today's generation categorizes Lionel Messi in a bracket that is beyond elite. The Argentine World Cup winner just turned 36 in June. Currently, with Inter Miami, Messi is on a mission to become the new face of soccer in America similar to <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_self" rel="noopener">Cristiano </a>Ronaldo's potential impact in Saudi Arabia. It's reported that he preferred to join Inter Miami over the likes of moving to Saudi.

Last December, he finally managed to win the FIFA World Cup with Argentina. In the famous words of Peter Drury, "<em>Scaloni will be fated, Messi will be sainted." </em>While everybody thought it was his last, it might just not be the case. With the USA as one of the host nations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the soccer veteran might surely hang around in the game for a bit longer.

[caption id="attachment_1400813" align="aligncenter" width="1696"]<img class="wp-image-1400813 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2022-12-18T205509Z_942384203_UP1EICI1I88MZ_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-WORLDCUP-ARG-FRA-REPORT.jpg" alt="Lionel Messi" width="1696" height="1200" /> Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 - Final - Argentina v France - Lusail Stadium, Lusail, Qatar - December 18, 2022 Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates during the trophy presentation after winning the World Cup REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY[/caption]
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi's net worth in 2024</h2>
Lionel Messi's current net worth in 2024 is $650 million. At Inter Miami, the Argentine soccer legend has signed a four-year contract worth $55 million. This contract had made him the highest-earning player in the MLS by far. It is also important to note that he rejected a $400 million+ Saudi Pro League offer compared to the Inter Miami one. Surprisingly, he still has a connection to Saudi.

In early 2021, he inked a $25 million deal and became the ambassador of the country. Apart from that, the Argentine also cashes out a huge pay cheque every year through his endorsements. In the past, he has endorsed several renowned brands like Jacob and Co., OrCam, Pepsi, Budweiser, Air Europa, Mastercard, Byjus, and many more.

He had originally signed with NIKE when he was 14 but later switched to Adidas. Currently, he is on a lifetime deal with the brand with his own sub-brand Adidas Messi. In recent times, he's been promoting his own store namely 'The Messi Store' a lot on social media.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi's early life and his family</h2>
On June 24, 1987, Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini gave birth to Lionel Messi. Out of four children, the soccer legend was third. He reportedly developed an interest in the game at a very young age. At the age of 4, his father started coaching him at a local club namely Grandoli. But his earliest influence was his maternal grandmother, who accompanied him for training at matches.

[caption id="attachment_842101" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-842101 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021-11-29T192614Z_745585461_UP1EHBT1HZO4G_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-BALLON.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1534" /> Soccer Football - The Ballon d'Or Awards - Theatre du Chatelet, Paris, France - November 29, 2021 Paris St Germain's Lionel Messi with his wife Antonella Roccuzzo and their sons before the awards REUTERS/Benoit Tessier[/caption]

That is why he celebrates many of his goals by pointing towards the sky to date, in tribute to his grandmother. At the age of six, he joined Newell's Old Boys. During his six-year tenure at the club, he scored almost 500 goals. At such a young age, he had become a fan favorite and also untouchable. But his soccer career was seemingly in jeopardy after he was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency.

He then started receiving growth hormone treatment, but the medical bills were rapidly piling up. His father had to reportedly shell out at least $1000 per month. In an attempt to look for a medical sponsor and a new soccer club, Messi's family relied on some of their relatives who lived in Catalonia. And the rest is history.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi and his feat at FC Barcelona</h2>
Initially, FC Barcelona refused to sign him because of his age and also because he was foreign. But in December 2000, the club showed their commitment toward the player with the famous paper napkin. His family relocated to Barcelona and Messi joined the U14 team. Unsurprisingly, he excelled quickly. He scored 21 goals in just 14 games with the U14s and climbed up the ladder in his club career.

At the age of 17, he officially made his debut for the club's senior team. It was during the 2004-05 season. He became the youngest-ever official player and goal scorer in La Liga. In the next year, he won the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona. In 2008, he finished second behind Cristiano Ronaldo in the Ballon d'Or voting list. The following season saw him and his club win their first treble.

[caption id="attachment_1729371" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-1729371 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0004516641h-1.jpg" alt="Lionel Messi Thierry Henry" width="1920" height="1280" /> Thierry Henry li. und Lionel Messi beide FC Barcelona feiern den Gewinn der Champions League 2008/2009 - PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxHUNxONLY - NOxONLINExUSE[/caption]

Under <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/pep-guardiola/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Pep Guardiola</a>, he scored 38 goals throughout the iconic 2008-09 season. After that, he simply repeated those audacious numbers every season. In the 2011-12 season, he was banging in goals for fun after he shockingly broke Gerd Muller's 39-year-old record. He scored 73 goals in all competitions. Here are some of Messi's noteworthy achievements during his long tenure at FC Barcelona.

<strong>With FC Barcelona</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>La Liga: 2004-05, 2005-06, 2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2015-16, 2017-18, 2018-19</li>
 	<li>Copa del Rey: 2008-09, 2011-12, 2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18, 2020-21</li>
 	<li>UEFA Champions League: 2005-06, 2008-09, 2010-11, 2014-15</li>
</ul>
<strong>Individual</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>FC Barcelona's all-time top scorer: 672 goals</li>
 	<li>Top goal scorer in El Classico: 26</li>
 	<li>Most games played as an FC Barcelona player: 778</li>
 	<li>Most goals in a La Liga season: 50</li>
</ul>
<strong>Messi's goals with Barcelona</strong>
<table style="width: 23.8264%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%"><strong>Season</strong></td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%"><strong>Games</strong></td>
<td style="width: 106.647%"><strong>Goals</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2004-05</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">9</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2005-06</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">25</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2006-07</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">36</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2007-08</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">40</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2008-09</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">51</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2009-10</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">53</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2010-11</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">55</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2011-12</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">60</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">73</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2012-13</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">50</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">60</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2013-14</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">46</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2014-15</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">57</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">58</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2015-16</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">49</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2016-17</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">52</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">54</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2017-18</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">54</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2018-19</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">50</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2019-20</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">44</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">31</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">2020-21</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">47</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%"><strong>Total</strong></td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%"><strong>778</strong></td>
<td style="width: 106.647%"><strong>672</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi's other club team career</h2>
Due to several financial constraints for FC Barcelona, the club had to let Lionel Messi leave. A teary-eyed Messi then joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 to play alongside Kylian Mbappé and <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/neymar/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Neymar Jr</a>. The soccer legend signed a two-year deal with the club until June 23 with an additional extension. Messi chose to wear No. 30 at his new club. Messi's career at PSG was honestly very quiet.

[caption id="attachment_1547372" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-1547372 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1024433759h.jpg" alt="Lionel Messi" width="1920" height="1275" /> Attitude - Joie de Lionel Leo Messi 30 - PSG - FOOTBALL : PSG vs Lille - Ligue 1 - 19/02/2023 FedericoPestellini/Panoramic PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRAxITAxBEL[/caption]

More than appreciation, he ended up leaving the club on not-so-good terms. But he did have a few good moments in France. In August 2022, he provided a long-range assist for Mbappe in the starting eight seconds of the game. That became Ligue 1's second-fastest second goal ever. He ended his PSG career with 32 goals and 35 assists in 75 games initially under Pochettino and then Galtier. Here are his achievements with the club.

<strong>Honors</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>Ligue 1: 2021-22, 2022-23</li>
 	<li>Trophee des Champions: 2022</li>
</ul>
<strong>Messi's Goals with PSG</strong>
<table style="width: 18.8543%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%"><strong>Season</strong></td>
<td style="width: 40.8998%"><strong>Games</strong></td>
<td style="width: 21.0526%"><strong>Goals</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%">2022-23</td>
<td style="width: 40.8998%">41</td>
<td style="width: 21.0526%">21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%">2021-22</td>
<td style="width: 40.8998%">34</td>
<td style="width: 21.0526%">11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%"><strong>Total</strong></td>
<td style="width: 40.8998%"><strong>75</strong></td>
<td style="width: 21.0526%"><strong>32</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain for free, he joined <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/david-beckham/">David Beckham's</a> MLS side. He signed a four-year deal at the club worth $55 million per season. Messi has now become the highest earner of the MLS, miles ahead of Xherdan Shaqiri. Also, he has signed quite a unique contract with Inter Miami. Along with his basic wage, the World Cup winner will also earn commission from Apple (MLS Season Pass) and Adidas.

<strong>Honors</strong>

Leagues Cup- 2022-23

<strong>Messi's Goals with Inter Miami</strong>
<table style="width: 20.0686%">
<thead>
<tr>
<th style="width: 29.9193%">Season</th>
<th style="width: 32.8637%">Games</th>
<th style="width: 95.3883%">Goals</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 29.9193%">2023</td>
<td style="width: 32.8637%">13</td>
<td style="width: 95.3883%">11</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi's national team career and journey to the 2022 World Cup</h2>
Despite his success in Spain, Lionel Messi decided to represent Argentina. Spanish soccer officials reportedly tried to convince him as he had dual nationality but he refused. He represented his country's senior national team in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Further, he won a gold medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. Meanwhile, Germany ended Messi's dream of winning the World Cup in 2010 and 2014.

Nonetheless, he still managed to win the Golden Ball at the 2014 World Cup. But the thirst and the desire remained. In 2016, he scored his 55 goal for the country breaking Gabriel Batistuta's record. After a third consecutive final loss in the Copa America, Messi decided to draw the curtains over his international career. But he made a comeback to the team two months later.

But his country's situation at international tournaments still didn't get better. France eliminated Argentina from the 2018 World Cup and they returned home with a third-place finish in the 2019 Copa America. But there was a sudden turn in their fate after that. It seemed like the Argentine squad had pretty much made up their mind about their short-term goals.

Messi won the Copa America in 2021 and then won the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina. Despite his age, he was an ever-shinning presence on the field for his country. He scored two vital goals during the nail-biting World Cup final. Despite retirement rumors, he continues to represent his national team. Recently, he reached 100 international goals, becoming only the third player to ever do so. In total, he scored 106. After a stunning World Cup victory, Messi claimed his record-breaking 8th Ballon d'Or.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">All the off-field awards won by Lionel Messi</h2>
Ballon d'Or: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023

FIFA The Best Award: 2019, 2022, 2023

European Golden Shoe: 2009-10, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2016-17, 2017-18, 2018-19

FIFA World Cup Golden Ball: 2014, 2022

UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award: 2008-09, 2010-11, 2014-15

Pichichi Trophy: 2009-10, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2016-17, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21

MVP La Liga: 2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2016-17, 2017-18, 2018-19

Laureus World Sports Awards: 2020, 2023

Argentine Footballer of the Year: 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022

Champions Top Scorer: 2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12, 2014-15, 2018-19

Bravo Award: 2007

FIFA FIFPro: 2006

Golden Boy: 2005

MVP Copa America: 2015, 2021

Onze d'Or: 2009, 2011, 2012, 2018
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi's wife and kids</h2>
Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo have known each other since childhood. Several sources suggest that he has known her since the age of 5. He reportedly fell in love with her at the age of just 9. He knew her because she was Lucas Scaglia's cousin, who was his childhood friend. Despite knowing each other for years, they only went official with their relationship in 2009.

After dating for about nine years, Messi and Roccuzzo decided to tie the knot. The grand wedding ceremony took place on June 30, 2017, in Rosario. The power couple has three sons. <span style="font-weight: 400">They welcomed their first son, Thiago, in 2012</span>, followed by Mateo in 2015, and Ciro in 2018. Apart from that, Messi has always cherished his family roots in Rosario.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi's foundations and charity</h2>
Lionel Messi has been involved in charitable efforts aimed at vulnerable children. His commitment stems from the medical difficulties he faced in his childhood. Since 2004, he has contributed his time and finances to UNICEF. The organization has a strong association with FC Barcelona. He has even served as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador since his appointment in March 2010.

Further, he reportedly donated more than a million during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, Messi donated three signed shirts to a Chinese pharmaceutical firm. That helped them secure 50,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Apart from that, Messi has also founded his charitable organization, the Leo Messi Foundation, which supports access to health care, education, and sports for children.
<h2 style="text-align: center">How to contact Lionel Messi?</h2>
<a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.instagram.com/leomessi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.facebook.com/leomessi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.youtube.com/@LeoMessi/about" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://messi.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Website</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/lionel-messi/info@messi.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Email</a>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Name</td>
<td>Lionel Andres Messi</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Born</td>
<td>24 June 1987</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Place of Birth</td>
<td>Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nationality</td>
<td>Argentine, Spanish, Italian</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Education</td>
<td>NA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parents</td>
<td>Jorge Messi, Celia Cuccittini</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Height</td>
<td>1.70 m (5 ft 7 in)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>72kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wife</td>
<td>Antonela Roccuzzo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kids</td>
<td>Thiago, Mateo, Ciro</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Social Media</td>
<td><a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.instagram.com/leomessi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.facebook.com/leomessi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.youtube.com/@LeoMessi/about" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://messi.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Website</a>, <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/lionel-messi/info@messi.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Email</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

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