9 things you didn’t know about Lionel Messi

Published: 7 December 2016, 11:57 AM

Lionel Messi is considered to be one of the best footballers in the world. So much so that some suggest he is the best footballer of all time, which is rather impressive considering all of the amazing footballers that have come before him. Regardless, considering his reputation, it should come as no surprise to learn that Messi has won a number of championships as well as what can seem like a constant succession of awards and accolades.

Naturally, this has resulted in him becoming a rather prominent pop culture icon, which has been fueled by his appearance in advertising campaigns as well as his support of charitable causes. Summed up, it is clear that Messi is someone whose influence will continue to be felt for years and years to come.

Here are 9 interesting things about Lionel Messi that you might not have known

1. Only player to score five goals in a Champions League game

Messi scores goals. Lots of goals. It’s what he does.

2. First player with three European Golden Shoe awards

Messi was the first player to ever win the European Golden Shoe award three times (2009-10, 2011-12, 2012-13).

3. Was charged with three counts of tax fraud in Spain

Messi’s father, Jorge, came under investigation for evading millions of euros relating to Lionel’s imaging rights back in 2007 and 2008. Jorge and Lionel are finally expected to stand trial in 2016. Both men face 22 months in prison, but many feel Lionel will ultimately have his charges dropped.

4. Born in same city as Che Guevara

Messi was born in the same city (Rosario) as Argentine Marxist revolutionary Che Guevara.

5. Comes from mainly Italian ancestry

Argentina was a hot spot for European immigration after World War II. Thus, it isn’t surprising that Messi comes mainly from Italian ancestry.

6. Spanish media nicknamed him ‘Messiah’

As Ronaldinho began to lose some luster, Messi became Barcelona’s most popular player in the mid-2000s. The Spanish media nicknamed him ‘Messiah’ as he was their new darling.

7. Has record for youngest Argentine to play and score a goal in World Cup

In June of 2006, Lionel Messi set the record for youngest Argentine to play and score a goal in the World Cup at 18 years old. Messi turned 19 during the tournament.

8. First contract with Barcelona was written on a napkin

Barcelona sporting director Carles Rexach was so impressed with Messi’s talents back in 2001, he wanted to sign him immediately after they met, but he had nothing conventional to write on. An agreement was reached, however, and both parties signed a napkin.

9. Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency as a child

As a 10-year-old child in Argentina, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. As a 13-year-old, Messi relocated to Spain to join Barcelona, and began a treatment plan paid for by the franchise.