Player: Lionel Messi
Serie: Topps Match Attax 2024/2025
Type: Hall of Fame
Card #: HOF 4
Lionel Andrés Messi, born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Standing at 1.70 meters (5 feet 7 inches) tall, Messi’s career is marked by his extraordinary dribbling skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability. His journey from a young boy with a growth hormone deficiency to a global football icon is nothing short of remarkable.
Messi began his football journey at a young age, joining the youth team of Newell’s Old Boys in his hometown. At the age of 13, he moved to Spain to join FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy. He made his first-team debut for Barcelona on November 16, 2003, at the age of 16. Over the next 17 years, Messi became the face of Barcelona, amassing a staggering 672 goals in 778 appearances for the club.
During his time at Barcelona, Messi won numerous titles, including ten La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey titles, and four UEFA Champions League titles. He also set numerous records, including the most goals in a calendar year (91 in 2012), the most goals in La Liga history (474), and the most hat-tricks in La Liga (36). Messi’s ability to create and score goals made him an indispensable part of the team.
In 2021, Messi made a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he continued to showcase his talents. During his two seasons at PSG, he scored 22 goals in 58 appearances and helped the team win the Ligue 1 title. In 2023, Messi made another significant move, this time to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS). As of the 2024-2025 season, he has made 26 appearances and scored 21 goals for Inter Miami.
On the international stage, Messi has been a key player for the Argentine national team since his debut in 2005. He has earned 191 caps and scored 112 goals for Argentina, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer. Messi has represented Argentina in multiple FIFA World Cups and Copa América tournaments. His crowning achievement came in 2022 when he led Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in history.
Throughout his career, Messi has received numerous individual awards and honors. He has won the Ballon d’Or a record eight times, the FIFA World Player of the Year award, and the Golden Foot award, among others. His career statistics are impressive, with over 850 senior career goals and more than 380 assists for club and country.
Messi’s impact on the game extends beyond his goal-scoring prowess. He is known for his humility, sportsmanship, and dedication to the sport. His influence on and off the pitch has inspired countless young players around the world. As he continues to play at the highest level, Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time remains firmly intact.
