Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami after leaving Barcelona, with the MLS club officially announcing him as a player in a recent video post.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding career achievements, impressive playing style, and profound influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is currently 36 years old.

Lionel Messi has won 7 Golden Ball awards, also known as Ballon d'Or.

Lionel Messi has won seven Ballon d'Or awards.

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award seven times.

Lionel Messi made his debut for Inter Miami CF on July 21 in a match against Cruz Azul.

Lionel Messi won a total of 35 titles with Barcelona, including 10 La Liga titles, 8 Spanish Super Cups, 7 Copa del Rey titles, 4 Champions League titles, 3 Club World Cups, and 3 European Super Cups.

Lionel Messi has won a total of 44 official titles with his clubs and country.

Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina.

Lionel Messi has played for Barcelona and PSG.

Lionel Messi was born in 1987.

Lionel Messi won four Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions League titles.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his impressive records, awards, and influence on the sport, showcasing his exceptional skills and dedication to football.

Lionel Messi has consistently delivered exceptional performance throughout his career, marked by outstanding skills, numerous records, and achievements, including seven FIFA Ballon d’Or awards and multiple titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi is often considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his exceptional skills and career achievements, with many experts and former teammates praising his unique abilities and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and individual levels, winning numerous titles with FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as individual awards like the Ballon d'Or.

Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami after leaving Barcelona, with the MLS club officially announcing him as a player in a recent video post.

Title:

Content: “The rain meant a new beginning” - Lionel Messi receives welcome message from ex-Premier League striker after Inter Miami move

Former Premier League striker Jozy Altidore sent a message as Lionel Messi was unveiled as an Inter Miami player on July 16. Messi's unveiling ceremony, however, was overtaken by heavy rain.

The Argentina captain, though, seemed in good spirits. He penned a heartfelt message on social media, writing:

"I want to thank everyone for yesterday!. The rain made it different than planned but still everything was beautiful. Thank you to everyone who came, thank you very much for all the love and also to the artists who were there and despite the conditions sang spectacularly."

He added:

"See you on Friday again..."

Altidore commented under Messi's post, writing:

"The rain meant a new beginning. Welcome legend!!!"

Altidore has previously played in the Premier League for clubs like Hull City and Sunderland. He made 70 appearances in the EPL, scoring two goals and providing 10 assists. Altidore is currently a free agent, and he last played for MLS club New England.

Here's what Lionel Messi said after being announced as an Inter Miami

Lionel Messi announced at the start of June that he would next play for Inter Miami. However, the MLS club officially announced the player in a recent video post. Messi joins the club as a free agent after his Paris Saint-Germain contract expired on June 30.

Messi's arrival in the MLS is a big deal, as despite several superstars gracing the league previously, he is perhaps the biggest name to ever join the competition.

Messi reacted to the announcement, telling (via the Evening Standard):

“We are overjoyed that the greatest player in the world chose Inter Miami CF and Major League Soccer, and his decision is a testament to the momentum and energy behind our league and our sport in North America.”

He added:

“We have no doubt that Lionel will show the world that MLS can be a league of choice for the best players in the game. We look forward to seeing his debut for Inter Miami in our Leagues Cup tournament later this month.”

Messi will play alongside his former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets, at Inter Miami. The pair played together 567 times for Barcelona.

Gerardo Martino, meanwhile, was recently appointed as the new coach of the Miami-based club after Phil Neville's sacking.

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Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding career achievements, impressive playing style, and profound influence on the sport.

Title:

Content: FIFA World Cup 2022: Is Lionel Messi the best player in football history?
Argentine star Lionel Messi has been described as the greatest player in the history of football, having led his country to the World Cup final, approaching a final chance to win the Qatar World Cup.
In the semi-final match between Argentina and Croatia, the seven-time Ballon d ’ Or winner scored the team ’ s first goal from a penalty and made one of his teammate Julian Alvarez ’ s goals, to win 3-0.
The fact that Messi did not win the World Cup, unlike Argentine legend Diego Maradona or Brazilian Pele, has always been a matter of interest.
It was considered a shortcoming when talking about the best player in the history of football, but now he has a chance to correct it on Sunday against the winner of the match between France and Morocco.
It was Messi's 1002 match against Croatia in his career, scoring his 791 goal and his 340 crucial pass.
The player also won 35 titles with Barcelona, the French league title last season with his current club Paris Saint-Germain, and the South American Cup 2021 with Argentina.
Former England defender Jimmy Carrager called Messi "the best ever" on Twitter.
Former England striker Alan Shearer said: “Does [Messi ’ s Argentina performance] put an end to the debate between Maradona or Messi? ”
Shearer added: "We said that if Messi wins the World Cup here, he might be the best.
That was the difference, and that was the point of division.
Maradona won the World Cup.
"If Messi wins here, my view will change."
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Rob Green, who played for England at the 2010 World Cup, believes Messi will change that by winning on Sunday.
The former goalkeeper told the BBC: "If you ask Messi if he wants to be the best in the world or if he wants that medal, he wants that medal on Sunday.
"He is eager to get the medal of the World Cup winner.
He did a lot for football. ”
In Sunday's match, Messi will make his 26th World Cup appearance, an all-time record, surpassing Lothar Mateus' previous record.
Messi is Argentina's top goalscorer in World Cup history, with 11, the only player to have made a decisive pass in five World Cups, and the only player to have scored at the World Cup before he was 20, in his 20s and 30s.
Argentina lost the 2014 final to Germany, but won the Ballon d'Or as the tournament's best player.
Sunday can complete the sweep of prizes for the winner of the World Cup, the Ballon d'Or and the Golden Shoe.
He also beat Paris Saint-Germain teammate Kylian Mbappe in the goalscorer's race thanks to more decisive passes, with both scoring five goals.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said "I have no doubt" about whether Messi is the best of all.
Scaloni said he had been saying that for a long time, adding: "I'm honored to be able to see him train.
"There's nothing left to say about Messi, it's a great honor to be in this team."
Messi may have seemed for a while to lack the speed he once enjoyed, but he did a lot of individual work in the game against Croatia, especially before sending his decisive pass to Alvarez to score the second goal.
Shearer said: "Argentina are in the final because of Messi.
He added: “Everyone is looking at him.
“He ’ s not working as hard as he did before and he may not be as fast as he was all those years ago. ”
But he added that Messi "still has that magic, that ability to twist, turn, run with the ball and easily get past those defenders."
Pablo Zabaleta, Messi's former teammate in Argentina, said: "Messi was amazing...
When he's inside the box, you don't want to touch him.
It was great. It was great.
Pass for Alvarez.
It was an incredible goal.
"Every time Messi shoots the ball, it feels like something is going to happen again."
Messi himself said: “I enjoy this a lot.
I feel really good, I feel strong enough to face every game.
I am very happy at this World Cup.
I can help the team. ”
Luis Suarez, Messi ’ s former Barcelona teammate, wrote on Instagram: “You ’ ll never get tired of proving you ’ re the best in the world. ”
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic, who lost the 2018 World Cup final to France, knows his side lost Tuesday ’ s game to a great team.
“I don ’ t need to say much about Messi. ”
"The best player in the world is very good and very dangerous today.
"He's the real Messi we expected to see."

Lionel Messi is currently 36 years old.

Title:

Content: Sports
2023-07-17 04: 30: 28
Daily News
Transfer News ｜ Mei Si: Build a Better Project “Pink No. 10 ” in Miami International
Share:
BIENVENIDO 10 (Welcome No.10)! Professional Football Club International Miami officially announced that Lionel Messi has joined and will wear his trademark No. 10 polo shirt to become the "pink army" and even the most powerful player in the history of the United States.
The 36-year-old, seven-time Golden Globe winner, put on the club ’ s home pink shirt in a social media promotional video and hard photo, and the club wrote “BIENVENIDO 10 ” in Spanish as a sign of welcome, and the two sides signed a two-year and a half to 2025, estimated the Argentine king ’ s annual salary of about $50 million to $60 million (about $47 million). Hong Kong dollars).
Mays, who has never worked outside Europe before, said: “I am very excited to start a new chapter in my career in Miami and the United States; this is a wonderful opportunity and we will continue to work together to build a great plan. ”
As for David Beckham, one of the club's owners, who was excited to win the Golden Globe Award at the end of this year, he said: "Ten years ago, when I was planning to build a new stadium in Miami, I said that I dreamed of bringing the world's great stars to this beautiful city."
“Today, when my dream comes true, I am immensely proud to welcome my friend, a wonderful man and his family to our community in Miami. ”
The next phase of our adventure begins, and I ’ m in a hurry to bring Leo to the scene. ”
Remesse 7.21 to play Landmarks
The club will hold a grand welcome ceremony called "The Unveil" in the home DRV PNK on Sunday at 8: 00 pm local time (Monday morning 8: 00 am Hong Kong time), and the club announced on Saturday the same night that the United States joined, in the United States before the minor break, defeated St. Louis City SC 0 – 3, nearly 11 league failed to win, still in the East Coast.
The United States is expected to make its debut in the League Cup Group Stage on the 21st of this month, consisting of 47 teams including the United States Professional and Mexican Super Club. The Super Blue Cross will play in the home field. The 3 teams that won the final will receive tickets to the 2024 Chinese Champions Cup.
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Lionel Messi has won 7 Golden Ball awards, also known as Ballon d'Or.

Lionel Messi has won seven Ballon d'Or awards.

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award seven times.

Lionel Messi made his debut for Inter Miami CF on July 21 in a match against Cruz Azul.

Title:

Content: The head of the MLS believes that Messi ’ s transition can push forward the entire sport of North America
The footballer moved to Inter Miami.
15 July 2023 23: 30
author: Stepan Sheremetyev
Head of MLS Don Garber shared his opinion on the transfer of Argentine striker Lionel Messi to Inter Miami.
“I am extremely happy that the greatest player in the world has chosen Inter Miami and our league.
This decision could push the entire sport of North America forward.
We have no doubt that Lionel will show that MLS can be a priority league even for the best in the world, ” Garber said.
By the way, the 36-year-old footballer will receive up to $60 million a year at Inter Miami.
He can make his debut with the new team on July 21 - in a match with the Mexican "Cruz Azul".

Lionel Messi won a total of 35 titles with Barcelona, including 10 La Liga titles, 8 Spanish Super Cups, 7 Copa del Rey titles, 4 Champions League titles, 3 Club World Cups, and 3 European Super Cups.

Title:

Content: Barcelona (dpa)
The official website of the Spanish football club Barcelona reviewed the achievements of Argentine magician Lionel Messi, and his records during his busy career with the team
The club announced the collapse of contract renewal talks with the player due to "financial and structural obstacles".
Barcelona wrote that the legend Messi holds all the major records in the history of FC Barcelona, having the most games with the team, scoring the most goals, winning the most victories and, most of all, winning the most titles in the club ’ s 121-year history.
Messi has not only broken records in the club ’ s history, he has also not broken local records, but he has a huge number of world and European records.
Barcelona stressed in his website that Messi is not an ordinary footballer, but he is the best in the history of the round witch ever, which was proved by many facts, which the club talked about at length.
Barcelona revealed that Messi is the most crowned "Ballon d'Or", awarded to the best player in the world, after receiving it six times in 2009 and 2010.
2011, 2012, 2015 and 2019
Messi is the only player in history, who collected during one season between the Golden Ball awards, awarded annually by the French magazine « France Football » to the best player in the world, and the best player in the world, provided by the International Federation of Football « FIFA » annually, and the scorer of the season in the Spanish league, and the golden shoes as the best scorers of the season in European leagues, in the 2009-2010 season.
Messi was the youngest player to win three gold balls, aged 24 years, 6 months and 17 days when he won the award for the third time in his career on 9 January 2012.
Messi holds the record as the most Golden Boot winner, having won it six times, and another record is for scoring the most goals in various official competitions during one season.
When he scored 73 goals in all competitions in the 2011-12 season, 50 goals in La Liga, 14 goals in the Champions League, 3 goals in the King's Cup, 1 in the Spanish Super, 1 in the European Super, and 2 in the Club World Cup.
According to the Barcelona website, Messi scored the most goals during the year, when he scored 91 official goals in 2012, and scored the highest number of international goals in the same year with 25 goals, 13 goals in the Champions League with Barcelona, and 12 goals with Argentina, to share the record with the late English striker Vivian Woodward, who scored the same number of international goals in 1909.
Messi achieved a record that remained steadfast for many years, after becoming the most scoring player with one team in various international and domestic championships, after reaching 672 goals with Barcelona in all competitions, surpassing the record held by the Brazilian legend Pele, who scored 643 goals with his Brazilian team Santos between 1956 and 1974.
Messi also set a second record, having the longest scoring streak in La Liga, after scoring 33 goals in 21 consecutive games in the competition, from stage 11 to stage 34 in the 2012-13 season.
Messi scored the most goals in a single season in a European league, after scoring 50 goals for Barcelona in La Liga.
From 2011 to 2012, Messi scored the biggest number of competitors in the Champions League, after scoring in 36 different opponents, surpassing his arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo, the star of Real Madrid, former English Manchester United and the current Italian Juventus, who scored in 35 different competitions.
Messi is the most crowned player with domestic and international titles with a La Liga team, having won 35 titles with Barcelona, three times ahead of his closest former Barcelona teammate Andreas Iniesta.
Messi has won 10 La Liga titles, 8 Spanish Super Cups, 7 Copa del Rey titles, 4 Champions League titles, 3 Club World Cups and 3 European Super Cups.
Messi won the most number of Spanish league goalscorer awards, after winning them in
Eight seasons, the last of which was last season, also tops the list of historical goals of the tournament, having scored 474 goals in 520 games played in the competition with Barcelona.
Messi is the holder of the highest number of goals scored by a player in the Spanish league in various official competitions, with 672 goals, and is also the most scoring player in the Spanish league in international tournaments with 128 goals, 120 goals in the Champions League, 3 goals in the European Super League, and 5 goals in the Club World Cup.
Messi holds another record in La Liga, where he is the most winning player in the tournament, having achieved 383 victories, while he played the largest number of games of the competition with Barcelona, with 778 games, 11 games ahead of his closest pursuers retired teammate Xavi Hernandez.
Of course, Messi tops the list of Barcelona scorers in the Champions League, with a balance
120 goals, surpassing by an overwhelming margin his closest pursuers, retired Brazilian star Rivaldo and Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, current Atletico Madrid player, who scored 25 goals in the continental championship.

Lionel Messi has won a total of 44 official titles with his clubs and country.

Title:

Content: Some are hard to break.
Messi ’ s best records on his 37th birthday
2024-06-24 | 06: 20
Alsumaria News – Sport
Lionel Messi ’ s record has reached a staggering 37, with more to be added during his current appearance at the 2024 Copa América in the United States.
This coincides with the celebration of the Argentine football legend's 37th year on Monday, June 24, 2024.
In Argentina's first match against Canada (2 – 0), Messi became the most played player in the history of the tournament (35 games).
He aspires to become the tournament ’ s historic scorer, surpassing compatriot Tocho Mendez and Brazilian Zizinho (17 goals), who has so far scored 13 goals.
Lionel Messi ’ s record was set by the Argentinian flea at the start of his professional football career in Barcelona in 2004, which lasted until 2021, where he won all the individual and collective awards, most notably the historical hexagon in 2009 and the second historical treble in 2015.
He then moved to Paris Saint-Germain due to economic problems in Barcelona, and played in France until 2023, and after winning the World Cup in Qatar 2022, he decided to end his career in the ranks of Inter Miami.
* Lionel Messi 's most notable records:
Official Titles:
He holds the highest number of official titles in history (44).
Golden Ball: The most awarded Golden Ball (8).
The Golden Shoe: The Most Winning Golden Shoe (6)
Goals in a calendar year: He entered the Guinness Book of World Records with 91 goals in 2012.
International matches:
The player with the most matches with the Albesiliste (183).
International Goals:
Most goals scored with Argentina (108).
Argentina World Cup goalscorer: 13 goals.
Registration for four World Cups: 2006, 2014, 2018, and 2022.
Argentina's youngest goalscorer at the World Cup: 18 years, 357 days.
South America's top scorer for the World Cup:
31 goals.
Number of World Cups: 5.
Number of matches in the World Cup: 26.
Most minutes in the World Cup: 2,314 minutes.
Number of times as captain in the World Cup: 19 games.
Crucial goals and passes at the World Cup: 13 goals and 8 passes (most)
World Cup Ballon d'Or: Won twice (2014 and 2022).
Player of the Match Award in the World Cup: 14 times.
Registration in different stages of the World Cup in the same version.
Lionel Messi ’ s World Cup record: scoring at different ages.
The longest time between the first and last goal of the World Cup: 16 years, 6 months and 2 days.
First scoring in the highest number of World Cup matches: 8.
Most scoring captain in the World Cup final: 2 goals.
Copa America: 35 games.
Number of crucial passes in the Copa America: 18.
Highest number of La Liga titles for foreigners: 10.
Top scorer for the same team:
672 goals for Barcelona.
Spanish league goalscorer: 474 goals.
History of Spain: 26 goals.
Most goals in a season of La Liga: 50 goals (2011 – 12).
Most assists in a season of La Liga: 21 (2019 / 20).
Crucial passes in La Liga: 193.
Spanish football: 36 times.
Successive goals in La Liga matches: scored in 21 consecutive matches (2012 / 13 season).
Pechichi Award as Lagha goalscorer: 8 times.
Top scorer in the Champions League with the same club: 120 goals with Barcelona.
Goals in the largest number of clubs in the Champions League: 40 teams.
Fastest scoring 100 goals in the Champions League: 123 games.
Lionel Messi ’ s record makes him an unforgettable legend in the world of football.
These numbers are not just statistics, they are a testament to the dedication, talent and superior ability to shine through the toughest situations and biggest tournaments.
With his many achievements, Messi remains a symbol of creativity and sporting excellence, and continues to inspire future generations of footballers around the world.
As he continues to play in tournaments, we can expect more historic moments and records to add to his impressive record.
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Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina.

Title:

Content: Lionel Messi's decision to play for Inter Miami prompts skyrocketing ticket prices

Messi may be the most famous athlete in the world

Lionel Messi is heading to the United States to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer next season.

The surprising announcement came Wednesday, when Messi confirmed reports he will be spurning a generous offer from  Saudi Arabia and his former Barcelona squad to play for David Beckham's co-owned Inter Miami squad.

Messi may be the most famous soccer player — and athlete — on the planet, and soccer fans are willing to pay huge sums to see him in person.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Lionel Messi of Paris Saint-Germain smiles during a French Ligue 1 soccer match against Clermont Foot 63 at Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris June 3, 2023.  (Mustafa Yalcin/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images / Getty Images)

StubHub sales for Inter Miami have increased nearly 28 times since the announcement was made on Wednesday. The number of tickets sold for July 2023 have already surpassed the number of tickets sold all of last season, compared to this time last year.

The average price for Inter Milan games for the season has jumped from just under $25 to just over $124.

The cost of seeing Messi in other cities is also rising dramatically. Inter Miami's game against Los Angeles Football Club at SoFi Stadium went from being the 15th highest-selling event of LAFC's season to second, and it's on track to be the top seller.

This is "an impact that can only be made by one of the greatest sports figures of all time," says StubHub spokesperson Adam Budelli.

Argentina forward Lionel Messi is thrown in the air by teammates during a recognition ceremony for World Cup-winning players after a match between Argentina and Panama at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires March 23, 2023. (Juan Mabromata/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Messi made the official announcement via Spanish publications Mundo Deportivo and Sport.

"I have made the decision that I am going to Miami. I still don't have it agreed upon 100% and a few things are needed, but, well, we decided to continue my path there," Messi said.

"After winning the World Cup and not being able to return to Barcelona, it was my turn to go to the league of the United States to live football in another way and to enjoy the day-to-day more — obviously, with the same responsibility and desire to play well and do things well, as always, but in a calmer way."

Argentina forward Lionel Messi waves during a recognition ceremony for the World Cup-winning team following a match between Argentina and Panama at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires March 23, 2023. (Juan Mabromata/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Messi, 35, continues to play at an elite level, scoring 16 goals and 16 assists in 32 matches for France’s Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 during the 2022-2023 season. He is also fresh off a World Cup victory with Argentina. Many believe him winning what had been an elusive World Cup title solidifies him as the greatest soccer player in history.

Fox News' Scott Thompson contributed to this report.

Lionel Messi has played for Barcelona and PSG.

Title:

Content: News section
Messi's departure.
Tragedy or relief for Barcelona?
Catalans learn to live without Leo
August 10 is a historic date for world football.
Lionel Messi has officially become a PSG player, moving from Barcelona.
It seemed that the blue-garnet Argentinian would never leave his native Catalan club, but the problems of the management of Barça with La Liga on the salary ceiling in the team have not been resolved.
Lionel Messi probably had no choice but to pack his suitcases and go to conquer Paris.
Messi and Barcelona is now closed.
What problems will the Catalan club face?
Who will be the team leader?
What are the advantages of Messi leaving Barcelona?
Messi ’ s departure has already hit the finances of Barcelona
The fans of Barcelona did not have time to move away from the departure of their main star, as the Spanish media has already calculated that the club will lose about 137 million euros due to the transfer of Messi to PSG.
This figure includes sponsorship contracts worth about 80 million euros, as well as sales of football paraphernalia for more than 40 million euros (information obtained from the Spanish TV channel La Sexta).
For the Catalan club, of course, it will be very painful.
Given how much the club spends on the salaries of the rest of the players (about 95% of the total profits of the club), this 137 million would be very useful for the club to function normally.
Otherwise, there will be news in the press that Barcelona are on the verge of bankruptcy, as it was recently.
Messi ’ s media presence was a great opportunity for the club to attract a wide variety of sponsors from around the world.
At the moment, there are more than 20 companies in the official list of Barsa partners.
Among them is, for example, a large Chinese stock insurer, China Taiping Insurance.
Of course, in countries such as China or Japan, football does not yet hold the minds as it does in the West.
But local companies are ready to invest a lot of money in famous European clubs.
What does this have to do with it
Of course, in part with the name of such great players as Lionel Messi, whom almost everyone knows, regardless of whether he is fond of football or not.
It is unlikely that China Taiping Insurance and other sponsors are happy with the departure of Leo Messi, because the name of the Argentine to some extent associated with the name of their company.
There is a possibility that after the departure of the Argentine from Barca, some sponsors will stop cooperating with her.
And the new team will be much harder to look for, because the man who personified Barcelona is preparing to put on another form.
The fears of the Spanish media regarding the financial strength of Barça are natural, but it is not yet clear how many sponsors the club will lose.
Who will take over the leadership role at the club?
“He ’ s a player who does fantastic things on the field.
There is no second such thing in the world.
Everyone admires his speed, the way he holds the ball, his dribbling, ” the great Raul once said after watching Messi play.
For the last few decades, Barcelona has always had a wizard who gave fans of the game incomparable emotions due to movements, dribbling and, of course, unrepeatable goals.
At the beginning of the 2000s, this was the legendary Brazilian Ronaldinho, who personified magic in football.
His Chelsea goal in the 2004 / 2005 Champions League can be revisited forever.
In the 2010s, Ronaldinho was replaced by Leo, who for ten years tried not to let Barça down from the top of the football Olympus.
And to talk about the role of the Argentine in the gold treble of 2015, generally meaningless.
The 2021 / 2022 season will be Barcelona ’ s first in recent history without Messi in the squad.
The position of the main star of the team is still vacant, and it is unclear who will take it.
There are a lot of candidates, but it is paradoxical that there are no favorites among them.
It ’ s like going to an expensive shoe store, choosing, looking around, but ultimately not buying anything.
Here in Barcelona for this day gathered excellent, skilled players: Griezmann, Aguero, Depay...
However, it is almost impossible to predict that one of them will become the sole leader in the team.
Aguero and Depay moved to Barça only in this transfer window and it is a little surprising that almost all the hopes of the club and the fans are pinned on them.
The 33-year-old Argentinian spent an unconvincing last season in the City, losing the competition with Gabriel Jesus.
He played for a season of only 12 matches and clearly lost his best form, which will take a decent amount of time to recover.
Although it's not that important right now.
Kuhn signed a contract with Barça in many respects in order to finally play with Messi in the same club, and Lionel so suddenly left.
You can imagine what the moral state of Sergio is now.
It is unlikely that he is happy with everything that is happening, which means that before the start of the season, it will be difficult for the fans to count on Aguero.
Depay is a player who is still for some reason considered a football player with great potential, although he, for a second, is already 27 years old.
Undoubtedly, he outgrew Lyon, and he urgently needed a chance to rehabilitate after a failed career at Manchester United.
Memphis has already played three friendly matches for Barcelona and scored two goals (one with a penalty kick).
Good statistics, encouraging, but it seems that Ronald Koeman does not yet know how best to use the Dutchman.
The classic position of Depay is the left flank attacking midfielder, but in three matches he managed to play both in his native position, and in the center of the attack, and even a little in the position of playmaker.
It is clear that Kuman wants to squeeze the maximum out of the Barcelona attack by shoving all his attackers into the composition.
This is Aguero, and Griezmann, and Bratwaite.
They all need to find a use because they are ambitious players and are unlikely to stay at the club if they do not get proper practice.
So Kuman has to experiment with Depai, who is more mobile and versatile compared to the rest of the attack players.
The start of the La Liga season will show whether it will be possible to find Memphis a position that will reveal him from the strongest side.
Antoine Griezmann of this trio, perhaps, looks the most remarkable of all in the role of leader.
The Frenchman spent his second season well (20 goals and 12 assists in 35 matches).
If you close your eyes to the complete failure of the Catalans in the Champions League and third place in the league, you get a good picture.
Messi's departure should definitely relax Griezmann.
The Frenchman was bought for a decent 105 million euros, and he failed to show himself in just two seasons.
Either the figure of Messi pressed, or the adaptation to the realities of “Barca ” affected.
Now Griezmann has a real chance to prove to himself and all the critics what he is worth.
The adaptation should have been over by now, Messi is not in the lineup.
“Just do it, ” as Nike ’ s tagline goes.
This season will be really important for the French.
Either he will show that he can be the head and leader in the top club, or he will become the second Gareth Bale, who, after the departure of Ronaldo in 2018, could not become the foundation of the attack and, after spending several mediocre seasons, first gave the lead in the attack to Karim Benzema, and then almost went to his native Tottenham with a scandal.
Messi ’ s departure may be a breath of fresh air for the team
Obviously, the loss of the great Leo is irreplaceable for the Catalans, because the Argentine was not just a part of the team, but also a spirit, a kind of wand for Barcelona.
You can spend hours listing matches when Messi alone saved seemingly hopeless games.
And over time, more and more often the dependence of the team on one person was seen.
She grew exponentially and in recent seasons has already shown the helplessness of the rest.
Most of the team members at the most crucial moments seemed to be afraid to take responsibility and tried to part with the ball as soon as possible, transferring it to the Messi zone.
The most revealing match in this story was, of course, the return game against Liverpool at Anfield in the spring of 2019.
In that match, Barcelona simply could not do anything in the attack.
Felipe Coutinho, whom the Catalan club bought with such hopes, completely failed that game and, instead of helping the attack create moments, simply shifted all his work to the Argentine, as, indeed, the rest.
After the match, it was clear how tired Lionel was, and in his eyes there was complete hopelessness.
Last season, in the Champions League, in La Liga, the same story was repeated: “You don ’ t know what to do – give the ball to Messi ”.
It seems that there is nothing special about this phrase if Barcelona did not spend hundreds of millions of euros annually on transfers.
Therefore, the reboot of the team begs, I want to see what, in fact, Barcelona can do without Messi.
How will the game of the club change and who will take on the same responsibility that Leo took on at key moments of the game?
Examples when the team was too dependent on one player and failed, a lot.
Remember at least the national team of Sweden sample 2016.
Ibrahimovic was already well over thirty, but at the same time he was consistently called up to the national team, because he played well.
At the European Championships, the Swedes played about the same football as Barcelona: “You don ’ t know what to do – give the ball to Ibrahimovic ”.
But what can a young Zlatan do alone?
Clearly not what is expected and required of him.
As a result, the Swedes flew out of the group, and Ibrahimovic himself, apparently tired morally, announced the end of his career in the national team.
After that, the Swedes, rebooted, first gave a cheerful performance at the 2018 World Cup, and then generally took and came to the 2020 European Championship from the group with the Spaniards from the first place.
This story shows that there is always a flip side to the coin.
No need to be very pessimistic about the departure of Lionel from the club.
Someday it would have happened anyway.
But now Barcelona have a great opportunity to prove to the world that it can be great, powerful and competitive even without Messi in the squad.
Evgeny Romanov
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Lionel Messi was born in 1987.

Title:

Content: What Was Lionel Messi Known For?

News

What Was Lionel Messi Known For?

Lionel Messi, the Argentine football superstar, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Known for his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability, Messi has left an indelible mark on the world of football. From his early days at FC Barcelona to his international success with the Argentine national team, Messi’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi showed immense talent from a young age. He joined the Barcelona youth academy, La Masia, at the age of 13, where he honed his skills and developed his unique playing style. Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004, at the age of 17, and quickly became a key player for the club.

Playing Style and Skills
Messi is known for his exceptional dribbling ability, close ball control, and lightning-fast speed. His low center of gravity allows him to change direction quickly, leaving defenders in his wake. His vision and passing accuracy are also remarkable, enabling him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. However, it is his goal-scoring prowess that truly sets him apart. Messi has an incredible ability to find the back of the net, often with stunning precision and creativity.

Records and Achievements
Throughout his career, Messi has shattered numerous records and achieved countless milestones. He has won numerous individual awards, including the prestigious FIFA Ballon d’Or, which he has claimed a record-breaking seven times. Messi has also led Barcelona to numerous domestic and international titles, including ten La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles.

FAQ

Q: What is Messi’s playing position?
A: Messi primarily plays as a forward or attacking midfielder, but his versatility allows him to excel in various positions on the field.

Q: Has Messi ever won the FIFA World Cup?
A: Despite his immense success at the club level, Messi has yet to win the FIFA World Cup with the Argentine national team. However, he has led Argentina to the finals in 2014 and has won several other international tournaments, including the Copa America.

Q: How many goals has Messi scored in his career?
A: As of 2021, Messi has scored over 700 goals in official matches for both club and country.

In conclusion, Lionel Messi is known for his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability. His playing style, records, and achievements have solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Whether it is his mesmerizing dribbles or his ability to find the back of the net, Messi’s impact on the sport will be remembered for generations to come.

Lionel Messi won four Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Title:

Content: The evolution of Argentina, Messi and Scaloni: From pariahs to heroes

Located in the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve in Puerto Madero, Paseo de la Gloria (Walk of Glory) is a tourist attraction that was created in Argentina’s capital ahead of hosting the 2018 Youth Olympic Games.

Visitors and locals walk the airy promenade and pay homage to the country’s most accomplished sportsmen and women: heroes of tennis, field hockey, basketball, golf, boxing and horse racing are enshrined in bronze and immortalized, just a stone’s throw from the Rio de la Plata.

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Among the most recognizable statues are those of former NBA great Emanuel Ginobili and tennis icon Gabriela Sabatini. But the most popular statue is that of Lionel Messi.

Created by Argentine sculptor Carlos Benavidez, it captures Messi’s signature running style — the moment when he bursts past an opponent on the dribble.

It was erected in 2016 shortly after the now 35-year-old retired temporarily from Argentina’s national team. A defeat to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final was followed by two consecutive Copa America final losses to Chile in 2015 and 2016.

Both the defeats by Chile were agonising penalty shootouts, including Messi sailing his penalty over the bar at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium in the 2016 match. Immediately after that game, Messi shocked the world when he announced his retirement from international football.

“It’s incredible, really. It just won’t happen for us,” a downtrodden Messi told reporters from the mixed zone. “Apparently this is how it’s going to be. Today it happened to us again, and again in penalties.”

Asked what was going through his head and whether it was too early to think about CONMEBOL’s World Cup qualifiers for Russia 2018, Messi muttered: “I was thinking about this in the dressing room. That’s it. The national team is over for me. It’s been four finals. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be for me. I couldn’t do it. That’s it.”

Messi had already won five Ballon d’Ors and eight La Liga titles with Barcelona. He had lifted four Champions League trophies and had enormous success in Europe. For over a decade, Messi has been considered the world’s best player, but success in Argentina’s famed No 10 shirt has eluded him.

He was criticized in Argentina for failing to perform for his country when it mattered most. Messi left his boyhood town of Rosario for La Masia in Barcelona at the age of 13 and became a legend in Spain, but that was later used by Argentina fans and pundits to question whether he truly embodied the rugged spirit of an Argentine footballer.

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It was that type of patriotic envy that was debated relentlessly on nightly television programs, in cafes and in the press. Barcelona’s football had finessed his game and softened his mentality, they said, and that was evidenced by the aforementioned finals losses.

Messi was revered around the world, but he had become a polarizing figure in Argentina — a “foreigner” who was crippled by the pressure of representing Argentina and a player who was burdened by the shadow of Diego Maradona.

As a result, Messi’s statue on the Walk of Glory became a frequent target for vandals. The statue’s torso was first stolen and then replaced, only to see it destroyed again in December of 2017.

A man runs past the statue of Lionel Messi after it was vandalized in 2017 (Photo: Mariano Sanchez/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Perhaps the thieves wanted a piece of Messi memorabilia for themselves. However, the symbolism that a toppled statue of Messi represented at that time could not be ignored.

Messi and his Argentina team-mates had become pariahs in their own country. Glory had slipped between their fingers far too many times to forgive.

The 2018 World Cup in Russia increased the toxicity around the Argentina national team. Drawn with Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria, they struggled to grasp manager Jorge Sampaoli’s Bielsa-inspired tactics and only narrowly advanced from the group stage.

A 1-1 draw with minnows Iceland was followed by a 3-0 thrashing by Croatia, the eventual runners up. Messi scored his only goal of the tournament against Nigeria to secure a place in the round of 16. They were promptly eliminated 4-3 by France. Sampaoli’s short stint ended less than a month later.

Reports of a rift between Sampaoli and Messi magnified the national team’s debacle in Russia. The general consensus in Argentina was that it was time to move on from a generation of players who had failed to win a title and instead incorporate new players into the national team — players who were unburdened by past failures.

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Captain Javier Mascherano, Gonzalo Higuain, Lucas Biglia, Ever Banega, Marcos Rojo, Enzo Perez, and Gabriel Mercado would not play again for Argentina.

There would also be a new manager tasked with leading Argentina at the 2019 and 2020 Copa America tournaments and the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. The list of potential successors to Sampaoli included Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone and former Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino.

Instead, Sampaoli’s assistant Lionel Scaloni was hired as interim manager. A former Argentina defender who played at the 2006 World Cup, Scaloni coached Argentina’s Under-20 men’s side before joining Sampaoli’s staff. He had two priorities when he accepted the caretaker position.

Lionel Scaloni shortly after taking over as Argentina manager in 2018 (Photo: Marcelo Endelli via Getty Images)

The first was to add Argentina Under-17 national team coach Pablo Aimar to his staff. Aimar is a respected tactician in Argentina and a staunch defender of football that suits creative players. The former Argentina, River Plate and Valencia midfielder was also Messi’s childhood hero. After Aimar accepted the role alongside Scaloni, the two coaches picked up the phone and called Messi.

“After (the World Cup) in Russia, Pablo and I called (Messi) and told him that we would coach the team on an interim basis,” Scaloni told ESPN in September. “Messi was a team captain with Mascherano. It was best that he heard it directly from us.”

Messi’s brief retirement in 2016 still lingered in the consciousness of every Argentinian. From the outside, his commitment to the national team was in question after Argentina crashed out in Russia. And considering the coaching candidates who had been rumored to take over for Sampaoli, Scaloni’s initial appointment underwhelmed Argentina supporters and journalists.

Aimar was joined on Scaloni’s staff by former World Cup veteran defenders Roberto Ayala and Walter Samuel. Yet, their inexperience as coaches overshadowed their careers as elite European-based footballers. Supporters clamored for an evolution of the national team, but when it began in earnest, it was difficult for Argentinians to accept.

Nonetheless, there was a detail that would prove crucial to Argentina’s future success under Scaloni. It wasn’t tactical, although Scaloni would gradually fine-tune Argentina’s style of play with Messi as less of a focal point.

What allowed Messi to feel comfortable again in the Argentina shirt was the fact he and the manager shared a bond. Scaloni had never coached in Argentina before joining the national team.

After playing two seasons in Argentina with Newell’s Old Boys and Estudiantes de la Plata in the late 1990s, Scaloni left for Europe and didn’t return as a player. He played for Deportivo La Coruna, Lazio, West Ham United, Racing Santander and briefly for Atalanta. Scaloni maintains a residence in Mallorca and he was an assistant under Sampaoli at Sevilla.

Scaloni wasn’t “made in Argentina” and that was criticized by traditionalists. But that commonality with Messi has strengthened their relationship. Messi is more comfortable than he has ever been in Argentina’s blue and white, due in large part to Scaloni and the players the manager has chosen as Messi’s supporting cast.

“When we took over officially, (Messi) told us that he’d come back, that he was committed and that if we called him, he’d play,” Scaloni said. “It was very natural. He shows a love for the national team which is evident when you see him play. The will to win for him is because of what he shows us on the pitch.”

Argentina lost 2-0 to hosts Brazil in the semi-final of the 2019 Copa America. They had started the tournament poorly with a 2-0 loss to Colombia which sounded the alarms in Argentina, as Scaloni’s tactics looked like a work in progress.

The side was experienced but Scaloni incorporated younger players like Lautaro Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes and Giovani Lo Celso. The holdovers from the 2018 World Cup team included Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria, Messi, Nicolas Otamendi and goalkeeper Franco Armani. Scaloni was beginning to build a core group.

He would need to impress in friendlies versus Chile, Mexico and Germany that same year. Argentina drew 0-0 and 2-2 with Chile and Germany, respectively, then routed Mexico 4-0. There was a workman-like identity to this new-look Argentina. There were persistent calls from pundits for Scaloni to be innovative with his tactics. Nevertheless, confidence and camaraderie were growing within the group.

Scaloni and the players had their sights on a chance to end the national team’s 28-year trophy drought. Argentina were set to co-host the 2020 Copa America with Colombia, which would have been a first for South American football.

That historic milestone never occurred. COVID-19 concerns in Argentina plus political unrest in Colombia forced CONMEBOL to strip the countries of hosting duties, postpone the tournament a year, and move it to Brazil.

The apprehension regarding Scaloni’s inexperience persisted as the tournament began, but the side showed a steely mentality and grew as the competition progressed. Messi was in inspired form, but new stars began to emerge.

Martinez looked the part as an elite No 9. De Paul became the axis in Argentina’s midfield with clean distribution and tireless running. Central defenders Cristian Romero and Otamendi provided a solid defensive wall in front of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who became a hero after he saved three penalties in an emotional semi-final shootout win over Colombia.

Argentina’s dream was alive, but Brazil had looked like a juggernaut in the group stage and knockout rounds. It seemed more likely that history would repeat itself at the Maracana, the same venue where Germany defeated Argentina in the World Cup final in 2014. A fifth consecutive finals loss for Messi would further damage his reputation at the international level.

The tables turned, however, as Argentina earned a hard-fought 1-0 win that shocked the Brazilians.

Lionel Messi celebrates winning the Copa America against Brazil in 2021 (Photo: Gustavo Pagano via Getty Images)

Messi had finally won the title that he so desperately needed, and desired. An elated Messi told reporters after the match that he had dreamed of this moment, and that for years, his family had suffered each loss alongside him. The family’s summer holidays began with a melancholy mood. “This time it’ll be different,” he said.

And it was different. The streets of Buenos Aires erupted with joy. The entire country embraced Scaloni, and his previously unproven group of players, as national treasures. Argentina’s first cup win since 1993 was hailed as an improbable feat against unprecedented odds.

“We’re still not conscious of the fact that we’re champions, of what we’ve just accomplished,” Messi told reporters from the Maracana. “But I think that this match will be remembered as something historic, not only because we became South American champions, but because we beat Brazil in Brazil.”

During that celebratory moment, Messi urged his team-mates and the country to take advantage of the momentum that had been created. This was the future of the national team, Messi said, which felt like a preemptive passing of the torch. The high of winning a Copa America carried through during the South American World Cup qualifiers as they cruised undefeated towards Qatar.

The sentiment towards the national team had officially changed.

“The support from the fans makes you feel more comfortable on the pitch,” Aguero told TyC Sports from Doha days before the World Cup draw in April. “Before we won the Copa America, when I played, (fans) were virtually silent during our matches. Now it’s like a party. A player falls down and everybody starts laughing.”

Argentina’s home qualifiers had the energy of a rock concert. Messi was the front man whose skills, goals and assists delighted the thousands of singing fans. Argentina had fallen back in love with him and their national team.

After Argentina sealed their World Cup qualification on March 25 with a 3-0 win over Venezuela, the sellout crowd at Boca Juniors’ Estadio La Bombonera stayed long after the final whistle to honor the players and staff that would compete for the ultimate prize in Qatar.

Amid blaring trumpets and chanting fans, Messi spoke about the magnitude of the moment and his own transformation.

“Lately here in Argentina, this is what we expected. We wouldn’t expect anything less from the fans,” said Messi from the pitch. “It’s been this way over this period of time, the unity between the national team and our people.”

Messi continued.

“I’ve been happy here even before we won the Copa (America). We have a wonderful group and the fans continue to show how much they care about me. I’m grateful. I experience it every time I come to Argentina, and more so after winning that trophy.”

During the September FIFA window, Argentina played before screaming fans in Miami and New Jersey in wins over Honduras and Jamaica. They were friendly matches, but the energy inside both stadiums, like in Buenos Aires during World Cup qualifying, made the players feel like rock stars. “We’re so happy with the connection that we have with our fans,” said De Paul from Miami.

Argentina’s last loss was that 2019 Copa America semi-final against Brazil. They’ll begin the World Cup in Group C against Saudi Arabia riding a 36-game unbeaten streak. Scaloni went from unsung interim manager to a pop culture star in Argentina. Fans on social media created a nickname, La Scaloneta, which is best described as an unstoppable hype train that’s destined for glory.

La Scaloneta has become such a big part of Argentina’s recent sporting culture, that fans often refer to the manager by his nickname. Scaloni isn’t keen about his newfound fame, but it’s unavoidable at this point.

In November several fans spotted the manager at Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza International Airport and shouted “Scaloneta!” as they took selfies with him. A smiling Scaloni told a nearby reporter, “I’m Scaloni. I don’t like it, but there’s no turning back.”

Four years ago in Russia, Argentina’s national team was at a point of no return. Messi’s legacy was in jeopardy and winning a World Cup seemed impossible for him. Now, Argentina are among the favorites to win the World Cup in Qatar.

And after years of disappointment and destructive criticism, the team is beloved again. But even deeply rooted love can be broken. The world will soon find out if Argentina’s storybook rise will have a feelgood ending.

(Top photo: Gustavo Pagano via Getty Images)

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Felipe Cardenas is a staff writer for The Athletic who covers MLS, the Mexican National Team, media and international soccer. Follow Felipe on Twitter @FelipeCar

Lionel Messi has won four Champions League titles.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his impressive records, awards, and influence on the sport, showcasing his exceptional skills and dedication to football.

Lionel Messi has consistently delivered exceptional performance throughout his career, marked by outstanding skills, numerous records, and achievements, including seven FIFA Ballon d’Or awards and multiple titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi is often considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his exceptional skills and career achievements, with many experts and former teammates praising his unique abilities and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and individual levels, winning numerous titles with FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as individual awards like the Ballon d'Or.

Title:

Content: Filed under:

Lionel Messi is headed to MLS

It’s happening.

Lionel Messi, one of the most decorated players in world football history, is headed to Major League Soccer, a watershed moment for the 27-year-old league.

Messi, in a joint interview with Spain’s Mundo Deportivo and Sport, revealed that he would join Inter Miami CF after 2 seasons with Paris Saint-Germain. Inter Miami tweeted a hype video moments later ahead of its official announcement.

The 35-year-old spent his entire professional career with FC Barcelona before joining the French superpower. With Barcelona, he scored 474 times over 520 appearances, winning La Liga 10 times and the UEFA Champions League 4 times. He also won the Ballon d’Or 6 times.

Messi then made his way to PSG, with whom he won Ligue 1 twice while adding a 7th Ballon d’Or. He combined for 32 goals in 58 appearances for the Parisian side.

His crowning achievement, though, came in the winter, when he won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, La Albiceleste’s first world championship triumph since 1986.

Messi’s decision easily surpasses that of another high-profile player to ply his trade in North America. Sixteen years ago, David Beckham sent shockwaves through the sport as he signed for the LA Galaxy after spells at both Manchester United and Real Madrid. As a result, MLS created the Designated Player rule (aka the “Beckham rule”) to provide a pathway for higher-profile players to sign for clubs with only a portion of their annual salary counting toward the cap. Beckham, of course, is a part-owner of Inter Miami, along with brothers Jorge and Jose Mas.

Now, all eyes will be on Messi as he makes his own stateside move to South Florida, one that has massive implications for MLS on a global scale.