"Lionel Messi: From World Cup Glory with Argentina to MLS Stardom with Inter Miami"

                                                                           

Lionel Messi, a forward for Inter Miami CF, is one of the world’s greatest soccer players and was instrumental in leading the Argentina national team to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

By Biography.com Editors, Adrienne Donica and Tyler Piccotti Updated: Feb 20, 2024

Lionel Messi, celebrating after winning the World Cup in 2022, wearing an Argentina jersey and raising his fist in triumph.
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Lionel Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer (MLS), is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time. In 2022, he played a pivotal role in securing Argentina's third FIFA World Cup title.

Lionel Messi News: Soccer Star Is the Subject of a New Apple TV+ Docuseries

Apple TV+ is launching a new docuseries, Messi’s World Cup: The Rise of a Legend, premiering on February 21, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at Messi’s journey and Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph. The four-part series includes personal interviews with Messi and an in-depth look at his quest for a World Cup victory.

Messi, now with Inter Miami CF, led Argentina to win soccer’s biggest event for the first time since 1986. He scored twice in the final, helping Argentina defeat France 4-2 in a penalty shootout. Messi, the team captain, was also named the tournament MVP.

This new series follows Messi Meets America, Apple’s 2023 look at his arrival and first season in the MLS. Inter Miami’s 2024 season also kicks off on February 21 against Real Salt Lake.

Who Is Lionel Messi?

Lionel Messi is an Argentinian soccer player who has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and currently, Inter Miami CF, as well as the Argentina national team. After moving from Argentina to Spain as a teenager, Messi became renowned at FC Barcelona, winning numerous titles and setting records, including most goals in a calendar year. He later joined PSG in 2021 and moved to Inter Miami in July 2023.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Luis Lionel Andres Messi
• Born: June 24, 1987
• Birthplace: Rosario, Argentina
• Spouse: Antonella Roccuzzo (2017-present)
• Children: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro
• Astrological Sign: Cancer

Early Life of a Soccer Prodigy

Luis Lionel Andres “Leo” Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina. He joined Newell’s Old Boys youth system at age 8. Diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency, Messi’s family moved to Spain for FC Barcelona to cover his medical expenses, and he joined their youth academy, La Masia.

Club Teams: Barcelona, PSG, and Inter Miami

Messi played for FC Barcelona for 17 seasons, moving to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, and then to Inter Miami in 2023.

                                                                         

FC Barcelona

Messi joined FC Barcelona at age 13 and made his debut at 16. He became the youngest player to score for the team and led Barcelona to numerous titles, including the Champions League and La Liga. He set records for goals and won the Ballon d’Or multiple times.

Paris Saint-Germain

Messi signed with PSG in 2021, reuniting with Neymar and joining Kylian Mbappé. He helped PSG win Ligue 1 titles but left in 2023 after a two-year stint.

Inter Miami CF

Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023, significantly boosting the club’s performance and revenue. He led the team to a 12-match winning streak and a Leagues Cup victory. Despite late-season injuries, he was named the club’s 2023 MVP.

Argentina National Team

Messi led Argentina to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2005 and had a storied international career. He faced criticism for not winning a major title with Argentina until the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, where he was pivotal in Argentina’s victory and named the Best FIFA Men’s Player.

                                       

Awards

Messi has won the FIFA World Player of the Year five times and the Ballon d’Or a record eight times. He was also named Time magazine’s Athlete of the Year in 2023.

Tax Fraud Scandal

In 2016, Messi and his father were found guilty of tax fraud, resulting in suspended prison sentences and significant fines.

Wife and Children

Messi married Antonella Roccuzzo in 2017. They have three children: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro.