Lionel Messi

Lionel Andrés Messi born 24 June 1987) is an Argentine footballer who currently plays for La Liga team Barcelona and the Argentine national team. Considered one of the best football players of his generation and frequently cited as the world's best contemporary player. Messi received several Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year nominations by the age of 21 and won both by the age of 22. His playing style and ability have drawn comparisons to football legend Diego Maradona, who himself declared Messi his "successor".

Messi began playing football at a young age and his potential was quickly identified by Barcelona. He left Rosario-based Newell's Old Boys's youth team in 2000 and moved with his family to Europe, as Barcelona offered treatment for his growth hormone deficiency. Making his debut in the 2004–05 season, he broke the La Liga record for the youngest footballer to play a league game, and also the youngest to score a league goal.

The Legend of Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi 2009 - Top 10 Goals *NEW*

Lionel Messi Dribbles and Skills

Messi hails Masch arrival

01/09/2010 12:11

Andy Mitten column

31/08/2010 03:30

Barca triumph

30/08/2010 15:10