Who is the greatest football player in modern football days? This question has a lot of debate among football fans worldwide. But, two names come first. One name is Lionel Messi, and another name is Cristiano Ronaldo. These two players are the modern football “GOAT” with no confusion.
However, Lionel Messi is one of the most gifted and unique players in the modern football world. He has immense achievements in both National football and Club football, some of which made him extraordinary from others, such as the most official assists record (348), and the record for most goals in La Liga (474).
Besides, he is an inspiration for millions of football fans around the world because of his exceptional dedication, perseverance and effort. He talked about his life and shared how he reached his current position.
However, there are some fascinating facts about Leo Messi that people would love to overlook. Here are the 5 fascinating facts-
1. First contract on a ‘Napkin Paper’
At the age of 12, Messi’s first contract occurred on a napkin paper. FC Barcelona’s experienced scout Carles Rexach saw Messi playing for Rosario. He especially found Messi picking the ball, carrying it and scoring as if by himself on the field. This exceptional talent impressed Carles. Then, he immediately signed a contract on a napkin paper to make sure to travel to Barcelona.
2. Messi’s debut lasted only 47 seconds
Messi is the highest goal scorer in the Argentine football team scoring 94 goals. But his international debut did not go well for the Argentina football team. As he received a red card against the Hungary football team due to swinging an elbow that hit the opponent on the neck. That is why he had to leave after only 47 seconds of playing.
3. Dedicate all of his goals to his late grandmother
Did you notice when Messi scored his arm & eye pointed up to the sky? If you notice this thing, you may find that it is Praying. But it is not praying. It is a sign of dedication to his all goals for his Grandmother named Celia Olivera Cuccittini. She passed away during Messi’s early football career.
4. Mr hat trick
A hat trick is when a footballer scores 3 times in the same match, but it is not an easy task for a footballer unless you’re Messi or Ronaldo. At the age of 19, his very first hat trick came in El Clasico in La Liga against Real Madrid. Overall, Messi did 55 hat tricks in total in both International Football and Club Football until now.
5. Growth hormone deficiency
Growth Hormone Deficiency affected Messi in his childhood days. That is why he was not nutritious and healthy like other normal children. His growth hormone deficiency was identified at the age of 11, which was stopping his normal growth rate. After identifying his disease, his parents could not afford his treatment as the amount of treatment per month was $900. The Club Barcelona paid all the amount of treatment after signing a contract.
In conclusion, Messi indeed continues legendary performances. And also he is a perfect role model for dreamers who teaches the world and works on them to reach their desired goals. So, these interesting facts will be more inspiring for millions of football dreamers.
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Writer
Md. Sazid Alam
Intern at Content Writing Department
YSSE