Lionel Messi’s Career Highlights Before Lamine Yamal’s Birth

Lionel Messi’s early career was marked by rapid progression and historic achievements. Before Lamine Yamal was born in 2007, Messi established himself as a global football icon through a series of groundbreaking milestones.

FC Barcelona Senior Team Debut: October 16, 2004

(Photo credit should read LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)

Messi made his senior league debut for Barcelona as a substitute in a 1-0 victory over Espanyol, marking the beginning of his professional journey.

UEFA Champions League Debut: December 7, 2004

At age 17, Messi participated in his first UEFA Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk, starting the game in a 2-0 loss.

First Goal for Barcelona: May 1, 2005

Messi netted his maiden goal for the club in a La Liga clash against Albacete.

First LaLiga Title: May 14, 2005

Messi helped Barcelona secure its first league title in six years, defeating Real Madrid in a dramatic four-point margin finale.

U-20 World Cup and MVP: July 2, 2005

Leading Argentina to victory, Messi claimed the FIFA U-20 World Cup, earning both the Golden Ball (MVP) and Golden Shoe (top scorer) awards.

Golden Boy Award Winner: December 2005

Recognized as Europe’s top youth talent, Messi wasnamed the Golden Boy, surpassing competitors like Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo.

First Champions League Title: May 17, 2006

Messi contributed to Barcelona’s 2006 Champions League win over Arsenal, featuring in six matches and scoring once.

(Photo by LLUIS GENE / AFP)

Second LaLiga Title: May 19, 2006

Messi secured back-to-back league titles for Barcelona, followed by a Supercopa de España victory.

FIFA World Cup Debut: June 16, 2006

At 18, Messi debuted for Argentina in the World Cup, scoring against Serbia and Montenegro en route to a Round of 16 victory.

(Photo by JUNG YEON-JE / AFP via Getty Images)

FIFPro World XI Selection: November 2006

Messi was voted into the FIFPro World XI at age 19, cementing his global stardom.

El Clásico Hat-Trick: March 11, 2007

Messi recorded his first professional hat-trick in a 3-3 draw against Real Madrid, turning the match around for Barcelona.

The ‘Ankara Messi’ Goal: April 18, 2007

Messi’s solo goal against Getafe in the Copa del Rey mirrored Diego Maradona’s iconic 1986 performance, becoming an iconic moment in his career.

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