Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest football player of all time. With numerous records, accolades, and breathtaking moments on the pitch, Messi has captivated fans around the world. However, beyond his extraordinary football skills, there are plenty of lesser-known facts that make Messi even more intriguing. Here are the top 50 unknown facts about Lionel Messi that will surely surprise you:
1. Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency at the age of 11, which stunted his growth and affected his physical development. This setback never deterred him from pursuing his dream.
2. At the age of 13, Messi moved from Argentina to Barcelona to join the prestigious youth academy, La Masia, setting the stage for his meteoric rise.
3. The footballing world was introduced to a teenage Messi when he made his professional debut for Barcelona at the age of 17, becoming the youngest player to represent the club at that time.
4. With a record-breaking 6 Ballon d’Or (World Player of the Year) titles to his name, Messi has solidified his status as the most decorated player in history.
5. Interestingly, Messi suffers from motion sickness and must take medication before embarking on long car journeys.
6. Messi’s unparalleled brilliance is evident from the fact that he holds the record for the most goals in a calendar year – an astonishing 91 goals in 2012.
7. The iconic forward has scored over 700 career goals, making him one of the most prolific goalscorers in the history of the sport.
8. While most people might assume Messi’s favorite food to be an elaborate dish, it’s milanesa napolitana, a simple breaded meat dish that reminds him of his childhood.
9. Messi found love early in life and is a devoted family man. He has four children – Thiago, Mateo, Ciro, and Antonella – with his childhood sweetheart and wife, Antonela Roccuzzo.
10. Beyond his remarkable football career, Messi is involved in philanthropic work and serves as a UNICEF ambassador, striving to make a positive impact on the lives of children around the world.
11. Messi’s impact extends beyond the pitch as he endeavors to inspire future generations. He has a theme park in China called the “Messi Experience Park.”
12. With an annual salary exceeding $100 million, which includes endorsements, Messi is among the highest-paid athletes on the planet.
13. While his left leg is his preferred weapon on the field, it is shorter than his right leg, a physical quirk that further emphasizes his extraordinary ability to overcome challenges.
14. Messi’s love for animals is evident in his choice of pets. He owns a beloved mastiff named Hulk, who is as loyal and fierce as his namesake.
15. Few might know this, but Messi is an avid fan of the popular Spanish TV series “Los Simuladores,” which showcases his down-to-earth and relatable personality.
16. Despite his incredible achievements, Messi harbors a fear of flying and often seeks solace in prescribed sedatives to cope with his anxiety before taking off.
17. The official Barcelona contract that laid the foundation for the legend Messi would become was signed on a simple paper napkin.
18. In a breathtaking display of skill, Messi scored five goals in a single Champions League match, a feat that only he has accomplished in the history of the competition.
19. While often compared to Diego Maradona, another Argentine footballing legend, Messi pays homage to his idol by naming his eldest son Thiago Messi, which is an anagram of “I am Diego.”
20. When it comes to individual accolades, Messi trails only the Brazilian legend Pele, who scored an astounding 1281 goals across his career, as the all-time leading goal-scorer.
21. Messi’s love for his mother is forever etched into his skin as he sports a tattoo of her face on his left shoulder.
22. During his formative years, Messi idolized Pablo Aimar, a former Argentine footballer. Aimar’s masterful dribbling and playmaking skills inspired and shaped Messi’s style of play.
23. In his time at Barcelona, Messi formed an incredible friendship with fellow footballer Luis Suarez, both on and off the field.
24. Messi’s influence extends beyond football, as evidenced by a flower named after him – the Messigold.
25. With an astonishing seven La Liga Player of the Year awards, Messi’s dominance in Spanish football is truly unparalleled.
26. Messi has scored over 50 hat-tricks throughout his illustrious career, leaving a trail of record-breaking performances in his wake.
27. Interestingly, Lionel Messi was named after another Argentine football legend, Lionel Messi Cucchittini, who played in the Argentine First Division for four years.
28. Messi has secured four UEFA Champions League titles with Barcelona, showcasing his ability to thrive on the grandest stage in club football.
29. Beyond his exploits on the field, Messi has ventured into business as well. He owns a clothing line and plans to open his hotel shortly.
30. As a testament to his popularity, Messi once received a marriage proposal written in blood from an enthusiastic fan.
31. Messi etched his name in the annals of La Liga history as the first player to score in 21 consecutive matches, a mesmerizing feat that highlighted his consistent brilliance.
32. Messi’s hometown, Rosario, pays tribute to its favorite son with a street that bears his name and a statue that immortalizes his greatness.
33. Messi shares a unique bond with fellow Argentine player Sergio Aguero, who is not only his national team teammate but also a close friend off the field.
34. Messi, like many athletes, has his lucky charm – a wristband that he wears during matches, which seems to imbue him with a supernatural ability to find the back of the net.
35. Messi’s extraordinary talent has not gone unnoticed by the sporting community, as he consistently ranks among the highest-paid athletes globally, securing second place behind Floyd Mayweather.
36. Fittingly for a player of his stature, Messi boasts an extensive collection of over 1,000 football shirts from players around the world, a testament to his appreciation for the sport and its icons.
37. The Barcelona legend has amassed over 450 goals for the club, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
38. Messi, much like his on-field persona, has a favorite superhero – Superman.
39. In 2018, Messi celebrated a significant milestone by scoring his 600th career goal, cementing his place among the greatest to ever grace the game.
40. Ever the savvy businessman, Messi expanded his empire and purchased a luxury hotel in Sitges, Spain, showcasing his commitment to creating an enduring legacy.
41. One of the defining relationships in Messi’s professional career and personal life is his friendship with former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola, whom he credits with helping him reach new heights.
42. Remarkably, throughout his illustrious career, Messi has never received a red card, showcasing not only his immense talent but also his fair and balanced approach to the game.
43. Despite his footballing prowess, Messi has an intense fear of insects, particularly spiders, and cockroaches, that often sends shivers down his spine.
44. As a testament to his incredible talent, Messi was named the best player of the 2014 World Cup, even though Argentina fell just short of lifting the coveted trophy.
45. In a challenging turn of events, Messi was diagnosed with celiac disease early in his career, leading him to adopt a strict gluten-free diet to maintain his performance at the highest level.
46. Messi’s love and devotion to his national team are evident in his over 70 international goals that have given joy to millions of Argentinian fans.
47. It was against Croatia in 2006 that Messi scored his first goal for Argentina, signaling the beginning of an illustrious international career.
48. Messi shares a deep bond with his former Barcelona teammate Neymar Jr, and their on-field partnership was nothing short of magical.
49. A testament to his global impact, Messi penned a book entitled “Messi: The Inside Story of the Boy Who Became a Legend,” offering fans an intimate glimpse into his life and career.
50. Messi’s incredible performances have earned him the prestigious European Golden Shoe award five times, solidifying his status as one of the greatest goal-scorers in football history.
These lesser-known facts about Lionel Messi offer a unique perspective on the man behind the footballing legend. From his humble beginnings and personal triumphs to his relentless pursuit of excellence, Messi’s journey has captivated fans worldwide. He continues to inspire generations of aspiring footballers with his astonishing talent, unwavering dedication, and remarkable sportsmanship. These were some unknown facts about Messi. Lionel Messi’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of football enthusiasts as a true icon of the sport.
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