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.
