Sreeda U M is a Sports Editor at EssentiallySports. An enthusiastic journalist, Sreeda has earned her Masters in Mass Communication and Journalism. She has been zealously following many sports, including WWE, since childhood and is a fan of the saga NXT's Four Horsewomen created. Also, she is a devoted Soccer/Football fanatic and an ardent Madridista. Besides sports, Sreeda is also an evolving Technical Writer and a music devotee with vast knowledge and flair in Carnatic and pop music.

Lionel Messi [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/lionel-messi/] is the talk of the town after signing a groundbreaking deal for Inter Miami [https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/soccer/inter-miami/]. Fans urge to witness the Argentine just after his arrival in South Florida. One such instance was highly trending in social media. Juan Pablo, a hardcore fan of the Argentine, seemed to have the best day of his life. He found Messi and his family were about to be in a restaurant. He took his chances in the parking lot while they were leaving. Juan went on doing something off the hook which made his dream come true! WHAT REALLY HAPPENED WITH MESSI ON HIS FIRST OUTING? Lionel Messi is having the time of his life [https://www.essentiallysports.com/soccer-football-news-before-it-was-soccer-and-now-its-football-2-days-before-unveiling-lionel-messi-warned-of-mls-madness-standards/] with his family in South Florida. Days before his debut, La Pulga was seen having dinner with his family and going for grocery shopping. Fans were excited by his arrival and tried to get a glimpse of him. Meanwhile, Juan Pablo, a 28-year-old fan, took an impulsive move to kiss Messi when he was about to leave a restaurant with his family. Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo [https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-05-08T163907Z_1827101626_UP1EJ581A95EO_RTRMADP_3_AWARDS-LAUREUS.jpg]Laureus World Sports Awards – Hotel d’Evreux, Paris, France – May 8, 2023 Footballer Lionel Messi poses with partner Antonela Roccuzzo ahead of the award ceremony REUTERS/Johanna Geron People had delightful reactions while seeing him do that and asked the reason. Pablo said [https://tn.com.ar/deportes/futbol/2023/07/14/el-argentino-que-sorprendio-a-lionel-messi-con-un-beso-inesperado-conto-por-que-lo-hizo-me-salio-del-alma/], “I don’t know, it was all so spontaneous… And he was smiling, happy, calm, although he didn’t expect this either.” Messi seemed happy about all that was happening after his arrival. Just like Pablo, many fans got to click pictures with the Argentine star. MLS is a new journey for Messi after his European legacy. It seems he planned it to begin on a happy note. Family Dinner With Family, Stirring Up Soccer World [https://www.essentiallysports.com/soccer-football-news-im-never-washing-my-lips-fan-kisses-lionel-messi-in-miami-after-family-dinner-with-family-stirring-up-soccer-world/] LIONEL MESSI HAS HIS MOOD SET, AMIDST HIS DEBUT FOR INTER MIAMI The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will make his debut on July 21. His arrival in the city created positive hype among the fan. Messi has seen spending light moments with family. Meeting fans and treating them quite gently. He seems to enjoy his time before the game begins. Spending time in café to grocery shopping, he was spotted all along. With his old friend Sergio Busquets joining the team, it will be interesting to see how they perform in the new season. lionel messi [https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021-11-29T211250Z_704190787_UP1EHBT1MXC65_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-BALLON.jpg]Soccer Football – The Ballon d’Or Awards – Theatre du Chatelet, Paris, France – November 29, 2021 Paris St Germain’s Lionel Messi with the Ballon d’Or award REUTERS/Benoit Tessier Inter Miami had the worst season despite the arrival of the world champion. As expectations around Messi seemed to be quite high, fans wait to see what can he change in the club after the season commences. Watch more: NFL Star’s Wife Celebrates Soccer Greatest Lionel Messi’s Miami Transfer with Unbridled Joy [https://www.essentiallysports.com/stories/nfl-news-nfl-stars-wife-celebrates-soccer-greatest-lionel-messis-miami-transfer-with-unbridled-joy/] 

A fan had his dream come true after kissing Lionel Messi ahead the debut of the
world champion for Inter Miami. Read More!

Prabuddha is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. Growing up watching the
sagacious Manchester United where legends like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and
Paul Scholes shone, Prabuddha has been an admirer of the EPL giants, and looks
forward to the new era stars like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford as the
torch bearers. Keen follower of the game, he values weaving his articles with
facts, analysis and captivating narratives. Moreover, Prabuddha's zeal for
soccer extends beyond the real world, as he associates with the virtuality of
FIFA 23. A Communicative English graduate who has carved out his passion with a
personal soccer blog channel, he is aiming to utilize his sports knowledge and
aspects into his articles at ES.

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Prabuddha-Soccer.png

Prabuddha Basu

figcaption

figure

strong

“It Was All So Spontaneous” – After Kissing Lionel Messi in Miami Streets, Fan
Reveals Emotions From ‘Unexpected’ Meet

Who is Cristiano Ronaldo’s Eldest Son Cristiano Jr’s Biological Mother?

Who Is N’Golo Kante’s Wife Jude Littler? Everything About France Star’s Family
Life & Children

Meet Declan Rice’s Family- Everything About England Star’s ‘Soccer Agent’ Father
Sean Rice, Mother Teresa Rice, Brothers & More

Will Mauricio Pochettino Coach the USMNT vs Canada Tonight? Current Status
Updated

USMNT Legend Backs Hope Solo Over Alex Morgan & Ex-Teammates’ Netflix
Documentary Snub- “Find That Sad”

<h2>Brief History</h2>
Inter Miami CF is a professional American soccer team based in Miami. The team has a relatively short history, and the first step that got the ball rolling came in 2007 when <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/david-beckham/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">David Beckham</a> signed with the MLS side LA Galaxy. As part of his contract, Beckham received the option to purchase an expansion team in America for only $25 million.

However, it wasn't until 2014, after retiring from soccer, that the English legend decided to exercise this option and establish a team in Miami under his group called Miami Beckham United. After four years, on January 29, 2018, David Beckham and his group were granted the twenty-fifth franchise in MLS and were scheduled to debut in the 2020 season.

[caption id="attachment_2510105" align="aligncenter" width="1200"]<img class="wp-image-2510105 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1033530479h.webp" alt="" width="1200" height="800" /> NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 19: Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi 10 along with defender DeAndre Yedlin 2 and teammates prepare to lift the championship trophy during the Leagues Cup Final match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at GEODIS Park in Nashville, TN. Photo by Nick Tre. Smith/Icon Sportswire SOCCER: AUG 19 Leagues Cup Final - Nashville SC vs Inter Miami CF EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2308190088[/caption]

Following the big announcement, on September 5, 2018, Inter Miami revealed the name, crest, and colors of the club. Moving on, to create a state-of-the-art facility for their fans and players alike, on May 8, 2019, the old Lockhart Stadium was demolished to make way for the new DRV PNK Stadium. This stadium now serves as Inter Miami's home ground and permanent training center.

Then a year later on March 1, 2020, Inter Miami played its inaugural MLS match against Los Angeles FC, in which the debutant side suffered a narrow 1-0 loss. The club recorded its first-ever victory on August 22, 2020, with a 3-2 win over Orlando City SC in their first-ever match on their home ground.
<h2>Owners and shareholders</h2>
The most known figure in Inter Miami's ownership is soccer legend David Beckham. Joining him are prominent businessmen brothers Jorge Mas and Jose Mas. Initially, Bolivian tech businessman Marcelo Claure and Japanese businessman Masayoshi Son were also part of the ownership team at the club's inception.

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1836292 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Inter-Miami-owners.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1280" />

However, in 2021, the Mas brothers and Beckham united to consolidate their stakes in the club. Concurrently, investment management company Ares Management made a significant equity investment of $150 million in Inter Miami.
<h2>Managers</h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Manager Name</td>
<td>Nationality</td>
<td>Managerial Reign</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Diego Alonso</td>
<td>Uruguay</td>
<td>December 2019-January 2021</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Phil Neville</td>
<td>England</td>
<td>January 2021-June 2023</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Javier Morales (Interim)</td>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>June 2023-July 2023 </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gerardo Martino</td>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>July 2023-  </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Player Roaster</h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Player Name</td>
<td>Nationality</td>
<td>Jersey Number</td>
<td>Position</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drake Callender</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Goalkeeper</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DeAndre Yedlin</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dixon Arroyo</td>
<td>Ecuador</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher McVey</td>
<td>Sweeden</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sergio Busquets</td>
<td>Spain</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tomas Aviles</td>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jean Mota</td>
<td>Brazil</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Diego Gomez</td>
<td>Paraguay</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Leonardo Campana</td>
<td>Ecuador</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>Forward</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/lionel-messi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lionel Messi</a></td>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>Forward</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Facundo Farias</td>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Corentin Jean</td>
<td>France</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>Forward</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ryan Sailor</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robert Taylor</td>
<td>Finland</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>Forward</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jordi Alba</td>
<td>Spain</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robbie Robinson</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Forward</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nicolas Stefanelli</td>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ian Fray</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gregore</td>
<td>Brazil</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sergii Kryvtsov</td>
<td>Ukraine</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Edison Azcona</td>
<td>Dominican Republic</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CJ Dos Santos</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>Goalkeeper</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Benjamin Cremaschi</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kamal Miller</td>
<td>Canada</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Noah Allen</td>
<td>American</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Franco Negri</td>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>Defender</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Ruiz</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>41</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lawson Sunderland</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Santiago Morales</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>81</td>
<td>Midfielder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cole Jensen</td>
<td>America</td>
<td>99</td>
<td>Goalkeeper</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/luis-suarez/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Luis Suarez</a></td>
<td>Uruguay</td>
<td></td>
<td>Forward</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Inter Miami's biggest signings</h2>
In September 2020, Inter Miami made their first major acquisition by signing Argentine soccer legend and ex-Real Madrid star Gonzalo Higuain as a designated player. However, the real game-changer came on July 15, 2023, when Inter Miami shocked the world by securing the signing of World Cup winner Lionel Messi.

Inter Miami offered a lucrative two-and-a-half-year contract with an astounding $54 million per season in salary to acquire the services of the Argentine maestro. A couple of days later, they continued to make waves by adding another one of Messi's former teammates and 2010 World Cup winner Sergio Busquets to their roster.

Busquets earns an impressive salary of up to $10 million per season with Inter Miami. The chain of high-profile signings didn't stop there, as Jordi Alba joined the team just days later with a salary of $1,600,000 per season. And finally, on December 22, 2023, Inter Miami secured yet another legendary striker with the addition of Uruguayan superstar Luis Suarez to their ranks.

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-2481827 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Luis-Suarez-joins-Inter-Miami.jpeg" alt="luis suarez" width="3373" height="2249" />
<h2>Trophies and Honours</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Leagues Cup winner - 2023</li>
 	<li>US Open Cup runner-up - 2022/23</li>
</ul>
On August 19, 2023, Inter Miami won their inaugural trophy in the Leagues Cup finals against Nashville SC. Just a month later on 27th September 2023 Inter Miami came close to winning their second title in the US Open Cup but fell short and lost the final 1-2 against Houston Dynamo.
<h2>Sponsors and partners</h2>
Inter Miami has formed partnerships with several esteemed companies, including XBTO, Fracht Group, AutoNation, Baptist Health, Florida Blue, Heineken, Adidas, Royal Caribbean, BDO, BodyArmor, Celsius, Coca-Cola, Continental, La Tropical, and Ticketmaster.

Inter Miami

Brief History Inter Miami CF is a professional American soccer team based in Miami. The team has a relatively short history, and the first step that got the ball rolling came in 2007 when David Beckham signed with the MLS side LA Galaxy. As part of his contract, Beckham received the option to purchase an expansion team in America for only $25 million. However, it wasn&#8217;t until 2014, after retiring from soccer, that the English legend decided to exercise this option and establish a team in Miami under his group called Miami Beckham United. After four years, on January 29, 2018, David Beckham and his group were granted the twenty-fifth franchise in MLS and were scheduled to debut in the 2020 season. NASHVILLE, TN &#8211; AUGUST 19: Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi 10 along with defender DeAndre Yedlin 2 and teammates prepare to lift the championship trophy during the Leagues Cup Final match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at GEODIS Park in Nashville, TN. Photo by Nick Tre. Smith/Icon Sportswire SOCCER: AUG 19 Leagues Cup Final &#8211; Nashville SC vs Inter Miami CF EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2308190088 Following the big announcement, on September 5, 2018, Inter Miami revealed the name, crest, and colors of the club. Moving on, to create a state-of-the-art facility for their fans and players alike, on May 8, 2019, the old Lockhart Stadium was demolished to make way for the new DRV PNK Stadium. This stadium now serves as Inter Miami&#8217;s home ground and permanent training center. Then a year later on March 1, 2020, Inter Miami played its inaugural MLS match against Los Angeles FC, in which the debutant side suffered a narrow 1-0 loss. The club recorded its first-ever victory on August 22, 2020, with a 3-2 win over Orlando City SC in their first-ever match on their home ground. Owners and shareholders The most known figure in Inter Miami&#8217;s ownership is soccer legend David Beckham. Joining him are prominent businessmen brothers Jorge Mas and Jose Mas. Initially, Bolivian tech businessman Marcelo Claure and Japanese businessman Masayoshi Son were also part of the ownership team at the club&#8217;s inception. However, in 2021, the Mas brothers and Beckham united to consolidate their stakes in the club. Concurrently, investment management company Ares Management made a significant equity investment of $150 million in Inter Miami. Managers  Manager Name Nationality Managerial Reign  Diego Alonso Uruguay December 2019-January 2021  Phil Neville England January 2021-June 2023  Javier Morales (Interim) Argentina June 2023-July 2023   Gerardo Martino Argentina July 2023-    Player Roaster  Player Name Nationality Jersey Number Position  Drake Callender America 1 Goalkeeper  DeAndre Yedlin America 2 Defender  Dixon Arroyo Ecuador 3 Midfielder  Christopher McVey Sweeden 4 Defender  Sergio Busquets Spain 5 Midfielder  Tomas Aviles Argentina 6 Defender  Jean Mota Brazil 7 Midfielder  Diego Gomez Paraguay 8 Midfielder  Leonardo Campana Ecuador 9 Forward  Lionel Messi Argentina 10 Forward  Facundo Farias Argentina 11 Midfielder  Corentin Jean France 14 Forward  Ryan Sailor America 15 Defender  Robert Taylor Finland 16 Forward  Jordi Alba Spain 18 Defender  Robbie Robinson America 19 Forward  Nicolas Stefanelli Argentina 22 Midfielder  Ian Fray America 24 Defender  Gregore Brazil 26 Midfielder  Sergii Kryvtsov Ukraine 27 Defender  Edison Azcona Dominican Republic 28 Midfielder  CJ Dos Santos America 29 Goalkeeper  Benjamin Cremaschi America 30 Midfielder  Kamal Miller Canada 31 Defender  Noah Allen American 32 Defender  Franco Negri Argentina 33 Defender  David Ruiz America 41 Midfielder  Lawson Sunderland America 43 Midfielder  Santiago Morales America 81 Midfielder  Cole Jensen America 99 Goalkeeper  Luis Suarez Uruguay Forward  Inter Miami&#8217;s biggest signings In September 2020, Inter Miami made their first major acquisition by signing Argentine soccer legend and ex-Real Madrid star Gonzalo Higuain as a designated player. However, the real game-changer came on July 15, 2023, when Inter Miami shocked the world by securing the signing of World Cup winner Lionel Messi. Inter Miami offered a lucrative two-and-a-half-year contract with an astounding $54 million per season in salary to acquire the services of the Argentine maestro. A couple of days later, they continued to make waves by adding another one of Messi&#8217;s former teammates and 2010 World Cup winner Sergio Busquets to their roster. Busquets earns an impressive salary of up to $10 million per season with Inter Miami. The chain of high-profile signings didn&#8217;t stop there, as Jordi Alba joined the team just days later with a salary of $1,600,000 per season. And finally, on December 22, 2023, Inter Miami secured yet another legendary striker with the addition of Uruguayan superstar Luis Suarez to their ranks. Trophies and Honours Leagues Cup winner &#8211; 2023 US Open Cup runner-up &#8211; 2022/23 On August 19, 2023, Inter Miami won their inaugural trophy in the Leagues Cup finals against Nashville SC. Just a month later on 27th September 2023 Inter Miami came close to winning their second title in the US Open Cup but fell short and lost the final 1-2 against Houston Dynamo. Sponsors and partners Inter Miami has formed partnerships with several esteemed companies, including XBTO, Fracht Group, AutoNation, Baptist Health, Florida Blue, Heineken, Adidas, Royal Caribbean, BDO, BodyArmor, Celsius, Coca-Cola, Continental, La Tropical, and Ticketmaster.

Inter Miami Archives

LatestInter Miami - EssentiallySports News | EssentiallySports

EssentiallySports

https://www.staging.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/es_circle_black_logo.png

Soccer

title

A fan had his dream come true after kissing Lionel Messi ahead the debut of the world champion for Inter Miami. Read More!

description

link

“It Was All So Spontaneous” – After Kissing Lionel Messi in Miami Streets, Fan Reveals Emotions From ‘Unexpected’ Meet - EssentiallySports

https://www.essentiallysports.com/soccer-news-it-was-all-so-spontaneous-after-kissing-lionel-messi-in-miami-streets-fan-reveals-emotions-from-unexpected-meet/

https://www.facebook.com/essentiallysports

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Lionel-Messi-3-8.jpg

twitter:card

twitter:creator

twitter:site

twitter:label1

twitter:data1

script

<h2 style="text-align: center">Lionel Messi: Net Worth 2024, Personal Life, Career, and Endorsements</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, "Scaloni will be fated, Messi will be sainted." 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.

With FC Barcelona
<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>
Individual
<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>
Messi's goals with Barcelona
<table style="width: 23.8264%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 25.929%">Season</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">Games</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">Goals</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%">Total</td>
<td style="width: 22.5953%">778</td>
<td style="width: 106.647%">672</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.

Honors
<ul>
 	<li>Ligue 1: 2021-22, 2022-23</li>
 	<li>Trophee des Champions: 2022</li>
</ul>
Messi's Goals with PSG
<table style="width: 18.8543%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%">Season</td>
<td style="width: 40.8998%">Games</td>
<td style="width: 21.0526%">Goals</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%">Total</td>
<td style="width: 40.8998%">75</td>
<td style="width: 21.0526%">32</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.

Honors

Leagues Cup- 2022-23

Messi's Goals with Inter Miami
<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. They welcomed their first son, Thiago, in 2012, 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>

Lionel Messi

Here is everything you need to know about Lionel Messi, his family, his career, and his interests. How much is the former Barcelona player worth?

What really happened with Messi on his first outing?

Lionel Messi has his mood set, amidst his debut for Inter Miami