How Old Was Lionel Messi When He Joined Barcelona

? Lionel Messi, often regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has had an extraordinary career that saw him rise to prominence at an early age. Among the many intriguing aspects of his journey, one burning question remains: how old was Lionel Messi when he joined Barcelona? In this article, we will explore the timeline and answer some key questions surrounding Messi's early career.

When did Lionel Messi join Barcelona?

Lionel Messi officially joined Barcelona, one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world, when he was just 13 years old. It was in the year 2000 when Messi relocated from his hometown Rosario, Argentina, to Spain to join the famed La Masia academy.

How did Messi end up joining Barcelona at such a young age?

Messi's journey to Barcelona began when he caught the eye of Barcelona scout, Carles Rexach, during a friendly match against a local team in Argentina. Impressed by Messi's extraordinary skills, Rexach was convinced of his potential and offered him a napkin contract on the spot. This informal agreement was later validated by a written contract, paving the way for Messi's entry into Barcelona's youth setup.

What happened in Messi's early years at Barcelona?

Upon his arrival at La Masia, Messi faced a series of challenges, including homesickness and health issues. He showcased his immense potential and quickly moved through the youth ranks, leaving spectators in awe of his talent and natural instincts on the field. By the age of 16, Messi had already made his first-team debut, becoming the youngest player to ever play for Barcelona's senior team.

How did Messi's career progress at Barcelona?

Messi's early career at Barcelona was marked by constant growth and development. He quickly established himself as an integral part of the team, forming a formidable attacking trio alongside Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o. Over the years, he transformed from a young prodigy into a prolific goal-scorer, breaking numerous records and collecting an impressive array of accolades, including seven Ballon d'Or titles.

How old was Messi when he won his first Champions League title?

Lionel Messi won his first UEFA Champions League title with Barcelona in the 2005-2006 season, at the age of 18. Although he played a limited role throughout the tournament, his performances and impact on the team saw him become the youngest Champions League winner at the time. Lionel Messi's journey from a young talent in Argentina to a global football icon began when he joined Barcelona at the tender age of 13. This bold move, taken by both the player and the club, laid the foundation for a career filled with extraordinary achievements. From his humble beginnings in Barcelona's youth academy to becoming their talisman and setting new standards in the world of football, Messi's story continues to inspire future generations. The age at which he joined Barcelona is a testament to his undeniable talent and the immense faith that the club had in him.