Football has given us countless legends, but few stories are as magical and inspiring as that of Lionel Messi. When people search for how Messi started playing football, they often want more than just dates and clubs. They want to know about the boy, StefaKick will take you on that emotional journey—.
Messi’s childhood in Rosario
Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, into a humble working-class family. His father, Jorge, worked in a steel factory, while his mother, Celia, was a part-time cleaner. Life wasn’t easy, but football ran deep in the Messi family. His grandmother, Celia Olivera, played a huge role in encouraging him. She was the one who pushed for him to join a local team and believed in him before anyone else. Messi has often said that every time he scores, he points to the sky as a tribute to her.
At just four years old, Messi was already playing with boys older than him at his neighborhood club, Abanderado Grandoli. His small frame didn’t stop him—if anything, it made him even harder to catch. Coaches noticed his balance, vision, and close control even then. This was the true beginning of how Messi started playing football.
The first steps in organized football
By 1995, when Messi was only eight years old, he joined Newell’s Old Boys, a professional club in Rosario known for developing talent. In the youth academy, he dazzled teammates and fans alike. People in the city would gather just to watch the boy who seemed born with the ball at his feet. His left foot became a weapon, not just for dribbling but for striking goals.
At Newell’s, Messi was part of a youth team nicknamed “La Máquina del ’87” (The Machine of ’87), after the players’ birth year. They were nearly unbeatable, and Messi often scored goals that kids his age could only dream of. His reputation grew quickly, but a major obstacle soon appeared.
The challenge of growth hormone deficiency
Around age 10, Messi’s parents realized that their son wasn’t growing like other kids. After medical examinations, he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. Treatment was available but extremely expensive—around $1,000 a month, far beyond what his working-class family could afford.
Clubs in Argentina admired Messi’s talent but hesitated to commit financially. River Plate showed interest, but even they couldn’t pay for the treatment. For many young players, this could have been the end. But for Messi, destiny was waiting thousands of kilometers away.
Barcelona’s life-changing decision
In 2000, when Messi was 13, he traveled with his father to Spain for a trial at FC Barcelona. The club’s scouts were astonished by his skills. Legend has it that Carles Rexach, then Barcelona’s sporting director, was so impressed that he signed an agreement on a pa, the club’s famous youth academy. Surrounded by new teammates and under world-class coaching, Messi adapted quickly despite cultural and emotional challenges. This was the turning point in how Messi started playing football at a global level.
The rapid rise to stardom
Messi progressed through Barcelona’s youth ranks at lightning speed. By the age of 16, he was already playing friendly matches with the senior team. In October 2004, at just 17 years old, he made his official debut for Barcelona in La Liga. His quick dribbling, fearless runs, and eye for goal made him a sensation.
Within a few years, he became Barcelona’s icon, forming legendary partnerships with Ronaldinho, Xavi, and Iniesta. His story was no longer about a boy overcoming illness—it was about a man destined to rewrite football history. By 22, he won his first Ballon d’Or, the beginning of an era of dominance.
Legacy of the boy from Rosario
When fans look back at Messi’s career, they see more than just records and trophies. They see the little boy who played barefoot in Rosario, who faced medical battles, and who carried the dream of his family and community. His beginnings remind us that greatness often grows, Messi’s journey is proof that legends are not born—they are forged. His story continues to inspire millions worldwide.
Final thoughts
The story of how Messi started playing football is one of resilience, family love, and pure genius. StefaKick invites you to keep exploring the incredible lives of football’s greatest players, because Messi’s path shows us that no dream is too big when passion drives it. Stay with us for more stories, stats, and guides that bring football closer to your heart.
