20 years after his debut at Barcelona, ​​some curiosities about Lionel Messi

Twenty years ago today, a young Argentine named Lionel Messi took his first official steps onto the Camp Nou pitch, marking the beginning of one of the most extraordinary careers in the history of football.

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On October 16, 2004, Messi came on as a substitute for Deco in a derby match against Espanyol at Montjuïc Stadium. Although his playing time was limited, it was the moment that signaled the arrival of a generational talent.

Three fun facts about Messi's Barcelona career:

1. A napkin deal: When Barcelona first expressed interest in signing Messi, the club's sporting director, Carles Rexach, famously penned a contract offer on a napkin to secure the young prodigy's signature. This impromptu agreement set the stage for one of the most successful partnerships in football history.
2. The youngest goalscorer in Champions League history: At the age of 18 years and 357 days, Messi became the youngest player to score in the Champions League. His goal against Panathinaikos in 2005 showcased his precocious talent and set the tone for his future dominance in European football.
3. The most Ballon d'Or awards: Messi has won a record seven Ballon d'Or awards, recognizing him as the world's best player on multiple occasions. His consistent brilliance and trophy-laden career have solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Messi's time at Barcelona has been nothing short of magical. From his early days as a promising youngster to his eventual status as a global icon, the Argentine has left an indelible mark on the club and the sport. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of his debut, it's clear that Messi's legacy will continue to inspire generations of footballers for years to come.