neymar messi biography

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi, a forward for Inter Miami CF, is one of the world’s greatest soccer players and helped the Argentina national team win its third FIFA World Cup in 2022.

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1987-present

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

Messi, now playing for Inter Miami CF of the MLS, helped his home country win soccer’s biggest event for the first time since 1986, scoring two goals in the final and leading Argentina to a 4-2 win over Kylian Mbappé and France on penalties. Argentina’s captain was also named the tournament MVP.

The new series follows up Messi Meets America , Apple’s 2023 look at the star striker’s arrival and first season in the MLS. Inter Miami begins the 2024 regular season also on February 21 with a match against Real Salt Lake.

Quick Facts

Early life of a soccer prodigy, club teams: barcelona, psg, and inter miami, argentina national team, tax fraud scandal, wife and children, charity and unicef, who is lionel messi.

Lionel Messi is an Argentinian soccer player who has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and currently, the MLS club Inter Miami CF as well as the Argentina national team. As a teenager, Messi moved from Argentina to Spain after FC Barcelona agreed to pay for medical treatments related to his growth hormone disorder. At the club, he earned renown as one of the greatest players in history, helping FC Barcelona win more than two dozen league titles and tournaments. In 2012, he set a record for most goals in a calendar year and, a decade later, helped the Argentina national team win its third FIFA World Cup. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, and in July 2023, he joined Inter Miami.

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

Luis Lionel Andres “Leo” Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina. As a young boy, Messi tagged along when his two older brothers played soccer with their friends, unintimidated by the bigger boys. At the age of 8, he was recruited to join the youth system of Newell’s Old Boys, a Rosario-based club.

Recognizably smaller than most of the kids in his age group, Messi was eventually diagnosed by doctors as suffering from a hormone deficiency that restricted his growth. Messi’s parents, Jorge and Ceclia, decided on a regimen of nightly growth-hormone injections for their son, though it soon proved impossible to pay several hundred dollars per month for the medication.

So, at the age of 13, when Messi was offered the chance to train at soccer powerhouse FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, and have his medical bills covered by the team, Messi’s family picked up and moved across the Atlantic to make a new home in Spain. Although he was often homesick in his new country, Messi moved quickly through the junior system ranks.

Ultimately, Messi’s short stature—5 feet, 7 inches—combined with his speed and relentless attacking style, has drawn comparisons to another famous Argentinian footballer, Diego Maradona .

Messi played for FC Barcelona for 17 seasons before joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 for two seasons. In July 2023, he joined the MLS club Inter Miami.

FC Barcelona

At age 13, Messi signed with FC Barcelona. His first appearance for the team was when he was 16. On May 1, 2005, Messi put himself in the record books as the youngest player to ever score a goal for the franchise.

Messi steered Barcelona to a wealth of success, most notably in 2009, when the left-footer’s team captured the Champions League, La Liga, and Spanish Super Cup titles. That same year, after two consecutive runner-up finishes, he took home his first FIFA World Player of the Year honor, as well as his first Ballon d’Or award, the top European individual honor in football.

Messi became the first Argentinian player to win the Ballon d’Or. Even the great Maradona gushed about his fellow countryman. “I see him as very similar to me,” the retired player told the BBC. “He’s a leader and is offering lessons in beautiful football. He has something different than any other player in the world.”

Amazingly, the soccer wizard continued to improve, discovering new ways to elude defenders while leading Barcelona to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup championships in 2010 and 2011, as well as the ’11 Champions League title.

Messi embarked on an all-out assault on the record books in 2012. He became the first player to score five goals in a Champions League match in early March, and a few weeks later, he surpassed Cesar Rodriguez’s club-record 232 goals to become Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer. By the end of the year, Messi had accumulated an astounding 91 goals in club and international play, eclipsing the 85 netted in a single calendar year by Gerd Muller in 1972. Fittingly, he broke another record when he was named the Ballon d’Or winner for the fourth consecutive time.

In 2013, the soccer great came back to earth somewhat due to the persistence of hamstring injuries, but he regained his record-breaking form by becoming the all-time leading scorer in La Liga and Champions League play in late 2014.

After helping Barcelona achieve a historic second treble in 2015, he was honored with his fifth Ballon d’Or trophy. Four years later, following another La Liga title, Messi again established a new standard for excellence by claiming his sixth Ballon d’Or.

On August 5, 2021, FC Barcelona announced it couldn’t resign Messi due to the team’s budget constraints and La Liga restrictions. Despite having voiced his desire to leave the club the prior season, Messi bid a teary farewell after 17 seasons: “This is really difficult for me after so many years spent here, being here my entire life. I’m not ready for this.”

Paris Saint-Germain

Four days after the shocking news from FC Barcelona, Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain. The 34-year-old inked a two-year contract with the French club. The move saw him reunite with former teammate Neymar as well as the talented Kylian Mbappé.

Messi made his debut for the club on August 29, 2021, and scored his first goal that September. PSG won two Ligue 1 titles with Messi but twice failed to advance beyond the round of 16 in the Champions League finals.

Although his contract allowed for an optional third year at PSG, the team announced it would release Messi as a free agent when the deal expired on June 30, 2023. Earlier in the year, the club suspended and fined Messi after he visited Saudi Arabia on an unauthorized trip. This all but sealed fate on the soccer legend’s widely expected move.

Messi’s last game for PSG was June 3, 2023. In total, he started in 72 games, notching 32 goals and 34 assists.

Inter Miami CF

On June 7, 2023, Messi told two Spanish media outlets he planned to play for the MLS club Inter Miami CF, which is partially owned by former soccer player David Beckham . “I have made the decision that I am going to Miami,” Messi said at the time, per ESPN . Messi later told Time he strongly considered joining a Saudi Arabian team before deciding on Inter Miami.

A little over a month later, on July 16, the team officially welcomed him on a 2.5-year contract that runs through the 2025 season. The deal was reportedly worth around $150 million , including an annual salary between $50 million and $60 million , a signing bonus, revenue sharing with the league’s media partner, and team equity upon retirement.

Inter Miami immediately benefitted on and off the field from their new team captain’s presence. The club went on a 12-match winning streak and captured the Leagues Cup, an annual tournament between teams from the MLS and Liga MX. Messi wound up scoring 11 goals in 14 games overall. However, with Messi injured late in the season, Inter Miami went winless in seven straight and failed to qualify for the playoffs. He was named the club’s 2023 MVP in November.

Messi has directly boosted revenue for the team, as well. Attendance at home games spiked 40 percent , the most in the MLS. According to The Athletic , the least expensive Inter Miami season ticket prices rose from $485 to $884 per seat from 2023 to 2024. Even with the price jump, Inter Miami announced 2024 season tickets sold out at the end of November, two months out of the start of the preseason. Not surprisingly, his jersey became the top seller in the MLS .

Messi and Inter Miami open the 2024 MLS regular season on February 21.

In summer 2005, Messi quickly made a name for himself on his native country’s under-20 squad. He led Argentina to the title in the FIFA U-20 World Cup, scoring on a pair of penalty kicks to propel the team over Nigeria. Less than two months later, he made his pro debut with Argentina in an August friendly match against Hungary but played less than two minutes before receiving a red card and being ejected from the game.

For all his success with Barcelona, Messi repeatedly came under fire for his inability to help Argentina’s national team win a major title. In the 2014 World Cup, Argentina lost to Germany in the final, though Messi was named player of the tournament that year. In 2016, following Argentina’s second consecutive loss to Chile in the final of the Copa America tournament, Messi announced he was ending his run with the national team.

The soccer great eventually reversed his decision, but his participation in the 2018 World Cup did not bring that elusive title, as hoped. After Messi scored an early goal in a 2-1 win over Nigeria that helped his team advance from the group stage, he was largely kept in check by France, his two assists not enough to stave off a 4-3 defeat that sent Argentina packing.

The following year, after Messi heavily criticized the referees in the wake of a 2-0 loss to Brazil in the Copa America semifinals, the Argentine captain was slapped with a three-game ban by the South American Football Confederation.

At last, in 2021 and 2022, Argentina and Messi found enough traction to bring home trophies that had long evaded them. First, the team won the Copa America—Argentina’s first major title in 28 years—in August 2021, besting Brazil in the final. Captain Messi tied for top goal scorer, alongside Colombia’s Luis Diaz, and was named player of the tournament. The next year, greater glory awaited at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Argentina captured the World Cup trophy on December 18, 2022, after a thrilling game against France that ended in a penalty shootout. Messi was named the Best FIFA Men’s Player for a second time and broke the record for most World Cup appearances with 26 games. Six jerseys that Messi had worn during the victorious championship run later sold for more than $7.8 million at auction.

In fall 2023, Messi scored three goals in qualifying games for the 2026 World Cup. However, as he nears the twilight of the his career, the soccer legend has adopted a realistic attitude about his future. “As long as I feel that I am fine and I can continue contributing, I am going to do it. Today, the only thing I think about is getting to the Copa America well and being able to compete in it,” Messi said of the 2024 tournament. “Then time will tell if I am [at the World Cup] or not. I’m going to be at an age (39) that normally doesn’t allow me to play in the World Cup.”

Messi won FIFA’s World Player Trophy five times, including four consecutive wins between 2009 and 2012, and has collected its contemporary the Best FIFA Men’s Player three times, in 2019, 2022, and 2023.

The soccer legend has won Europe’s Ballon d’Or a record eight times. When he won the Ballon d’Or in October 2023, Messi became the first active MLS player to do so. He’s also won the European Golden Shoe for top scorer six times, two more than his nearest rival, Cristiano Ronaldo .

In 2023, Time magazine named Messi its Athlete of the Year, pointing to his remarkable impact on soccer’s growing popularity in the United States.

In July 2016, Messi suffered a blow off the soccer field when a Barcelona court found him and his father guilty of three counts of tax fraud. During a four-day trial, Messi and his father denied breaking the law and claimed they were unaware of any tax illegalities they had committed.

However, they were both sentenced to 21 months in prison. Under Spanish law, first offenses under two years are suspended so they did not go to jail, but Messi was ordered to pay a fine of 2 million euros. His father was required to pay 1.5 million euros.

On June 30, 2017, Messi married Antonella Roccuzzo, his longtime girlfriend and the cousin of his best friend and fellow soccer player Lucas Scaglia. Messi met Roccuzzo in their hometown of Rosario when he was 5 years old. Their marriage, a civil ceremony dubbed by Argentina’s Clarín newspaper as the “wedding of the century,” was held at a luxury hotel in Rosario, with a number of fellow star soccer players and Colombian pop star Shakira on the 260-person guest list.

Messi and Roccuzzo have three children together: Thiago, born in November 2012; Mateo, born in September 2015; and Ciro, born in March 2018.

Although famously private off the field, Messi has quietly helped others in need. In 2007, he formed the Leo Messi Foundation to provide opportunities for disadvantaged youths. In early 2010, UNICEF named him a goodwill ambassador, with a focus on fighting for children’s rights across the globe.

• Every time I start a year, I start with the objective of trying to achieve everything, without comparing it to how I’ve done in other seasons.
• Whether it’s a friendly match, or for points, or a final, or any game—I play the same. I’m always trying to be my best, first for my team, for myself, for the fans and to try and win.
• I am competitive, and I feel bad when we lose. You can see it in me when we’ve lost. I’m in a bad way. I don’t like to talk to anyone.
• I made sacrifices by leaving Argentina, leaving my family to start a new life. I changed my friends, my people. Everything. But everything I did, I did for football, to achieve my dream.
• I have fun like a child in the street. When the day comes when I’m not enjoying it, I will leave football.
• I’ve never stopped being Argentine, and I’ve never wanted to. I feel very proud of being Argentine, even though I left there. I’ve been clear about this since I was very young, and I never wanted to change.
• Something deep in my character allows me to take the hits and get on with trying to win. I’ve always had this ability to get up and get on with it.
• I wasn’t teased as a child for my size. In fact, I think I had more affection because I was small.
• I am lucky, I live by my passion, and there are a lot of people who work, doing what they don't like and are badly paid for that.

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Neymar goals, stats, records, claims to fame: How brilliant is the Paris star?

Sunday, February 5, 2023

Article summary

UEFA.com celebrates the Brazilian's achievements so far.

Article top media content

Article body.

Neymar has proved that he is more than just a teen sensation during gilded spells with Barcelona and Paris.

UEFA.com polishes its shrine to the brilliant Brazilian.

What they say

"He can be whatever he wants to be – everything is open for him. He's quick, skilful and excels one-on-one. He has everything." Lionel Messi, Paris forward

"I like Neymar a lot. He is a bit like me. Can he be Messi's heir? Yes, he has everything he needs to become as strong as him." Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United forward

"People see him doing tricks and dribbles and think he is only trying to enjoy himself, that he's selfish and only thinks about himself. But when you share a dressing room with him you realise that it's not the case. He's a very kind person; he is interested in others." Kylian Mbappé, Paris forward

"When I am asked about Messi and Cristiano, I say that Neymar is the best for me. It is not just for his goals, but for the ease with which he plays and the confidence he has." Roberto Carlos, former Brazil and Real Madrid defender

"I have always considered him to be one of the best players on the planet, but I now have a much more informed and sharpened eye on his daily investment – on a personal level but also in the interest of the team. He is a great professional and a great player." Christophe Galtier, Paris coach

Current tally

International: 124 appearances, 77 goals UEFA club competition: 80 appearances, 43 goals European domestic competition: 274 appearances, 179 goals

Claims to fame

Santos • Neymar visited Real Madrid as a teenaged Santos trainee, long before he joined their arch-rivals Barcelona. Following a subsequent first-team breakthrough at 17, West Ham and Chelsea made unsuccessful attempts to bring the prodigy to Europe.

• Scored in the two-legged final as Santos lifted the 2011 Copa Libertadores – the first time they had won the South American equivalent of the UEFA Champions League since Pelé spearheaded their 1963 triumph.

• In 2012, Santos great Pelé said Neymar – then 20 – was a better player than Messi: "There's always this Maradona comparison, saying he's better than Pelé. Now some are saying Messi is better than Pelé. Well, he has to be better than Neymar first, which he isn't yet."

Barcelona • A 56,500 crowd came to greet Neymar at the Camp Nou when he signed for Barcelona in June 2013. Messi liked the look of him too: "He is still very young and joyful. He lives happily: a kid without malice."

• Scored and set up the winner in his first Clásico – a 2-1 success against Madrid on 26 October 2013.

• After failing to find the net in his first five UEFA Champions League games, he hit a hat-trick in his sixth: a 6-1 thrashing of Celtic on 11 December 2013 .

• Became the first man to score in both Copa Libertadores and UEFA Champions League final victories, getting the third in Barcelona's 3-1 win over Juventus in 2015. Was joint-top scorer in that competition with ten goals, level with Messi and Ronaldo.

• Struck 39 times as Barcelona's Messi, Suárez and Neymar (aka 'MSN') front three scored a Spanish-record combined total of 122 goals in 2014/15. However, 2015/16 brought his best Liga tally: 24.

• Reached 100 goals for Barcelona in his 177th match – a 3-1 win against Granada on 2 April 2017.

Paris • Moving to Paris, Neymar became the most expensive player ever. "We want to help Neymar become the best player in the world," said then-coach Unai Emery.

• Supplied a goal and an assist on his debut, a 3-0 success at Guingamp on 13 August 2017. Lucas Deaux did not enjoy marking him. "I'll struggle to sleep," he said afterwards. "I have never seen a player like this before." • The Eiffel Tower was lit up in Neymar's honour before his home debut on 20 August, and Neymar did not disappoint, scoring twice and producing an outrageous piece of skill in a 6-2 mauling of Toulouse.

• Ended 2017/18, his first Paris season, with 28 goals from 30 games – and a domestic treble. Won Ligue 1 in three of his subsequent four seasons at Paris, picking up a second treble in 2019/20.

• Helped Paris to reach their first UEFA Champions League final in 2019/20, though they lost 1-0 to Bayern in the decider.

• Scored his third UEFA Champions League hat-trick in December 2020, against İstanbul Başakşehir, to move on to 20 goals in the competition for Paris. He became the first player to score 20 goals for two clubs in the competition (21 for Barcelona, 20 for Paris).

• Those goals took him to 41 in UEFA club competitions, overtaking Sonny Anderson's Brazilian-record tally of 40 . Those 41 goals meant he also became Brazil's all-time top UEFA Champions League scorer.

• His final two goals in 2021 were in a 3-2 win away to Bordeaux in Ligue 1 and took his career total at club and international level to 400.

• Became Paris's fourth-top scorer of all time in September 2022, netting the only goal – his 110th for the club – at home to Brest in Ligue 1.

Brazil • Then-Brazil coach Dunga ignored a 14,000-signature petition by choosing not to take the uncapped Neymar to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The 18-year-old later made his point by scoring on his debut in a 2-0 friendly win against the United States in August of that year.

• Suffered a cracked vertebra in the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup on home soil, thus missing the 7-1 semi-final defeat by Germany – perhaps the most devastating loss in Brazilian football.

• Struck the fastest goal in Olympic football history, just 14 seconds into Brazil's 6-0 defeat of Honduras in the 2016 quarter-finals in Rio, the hosts going on to win the tournament.

• Became the seventh player to earn a century of Brazil caps, a 1-1 friendly draw against Senegal in October 2019 his 100th appearance. Cafu (142), Roberto Carlos (125), Dani Alves (105), Lúcio (105), Claudio Taffarel (101) and Robinho (100) all beat him to the 100 mark.

• Scored twice and had four assists as Brazil reached the 2021 Copa América final. Neymar was named in the Team of the Tournament as a result but Tite's side were beaten 1-0 by rivals Argentina in the decider.

• Registered eight goals and eight assists in ten appearances as the Seleção topped CONMEBOL qualifying for the 2022 World Cup.

• Became Brazil's all-time joint-top marksman during the 2022 World Cup, equalling Pelé's record tally of 77 goals. He missed two games during the group stage through injury but struck against South Korea in the round of 16 and against Croatia in Brazil's quarter-final defeat to draw level with O Rei.

What you might not know

• Neymar has loads of tattoos, some of which celebrate his family: his sister Rafaella's face is tattoed on his arm, his son's name Davi Lucca on his calf. Following Brazil's football triumph at the Olympics, he got Rio 2016 emblazoned on his arm.

• A restaurant in Vincennes, near Paris, created a 'Neymar Burger' in his honour. Ingredients: steak, potatoes, bacon, cheddar, salsa, tomatoes, salad, onions and a side order of French fries.

• Has a sideline in acting, appearing opposite Samuel L Jackson in 2017's XXX: The Return of Xander Cage after a series of walk-on parts in Brazilian soap operas and TV dramas.

• His dog Poker is named after one of his favourite card games.

• Was nicknamed 'Batman' at Barcelona, less for his love of the DC comics character than for his adventures after dark – Neymar being renowned for liking the city's nightlife, though he stuck to club rules.

What he says

"I came to Paris to be the best player in the world and to turn PSG into the best club in the world, which includes a Champions League trophy. We're ready and fear no one."

"Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are both my heroes. If I can take a little from each player's game and make it my own, I would be very happy."

"I would go into the dressing room [after joining Barcelona], look to one side and see Messi. Then I'd look the other way and see Xavi, Iniesta, Piqué, Dani Alves. I thought I was in a video game! One day I was playing with them on the console, the next I was one of them."

"There is no pressure when you are making a dream come true."

What he might achieve yet

• Lead Paris to UEFA Champions League glory. The club's sole continental success to date came with the 1995/96 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup. The only French side to have won Europe's top club prize were Marseille in 1992/93. Paris were runners-up in 2020; can they go one better?

• Become Paris's top European club competition scorer. With 22 goals, he is in third place behind Edinson Cavani (30) and Mbappé, who tops the list with 34.

• Become Brazil's all-time top appearance-maker. His total of 124 caps is fourth best and 18 behind Cafu.

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Lionel Messi Biography Facts, Childhood, Career, Life

Lionel Andres Messi Cuccittini (born June 24, 1987) is an Argentine professional football player, who despite the odds against him, turns things around and brings out a miracle when it’s least expected. He captains and plays forward for Barcelona (Spanish club) as well as the Argentina national team. Ever since he was a kid, he has entertained many with his prodigious skills, amazing dribbles, astounding swiftness and powerful shots. Now a global icon, he still adds to the thrill of the beautiful game of football. We discuss the life of Lionel Messi, fondly referred to as the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT) in our Lionel Messi biography facts, childhood, career and personal life. 

Our analysis includes Messi’s rise from being a football enthusiast at a tender age to now becoming the modern-age face-of-the-game, and how he overcame the seemingly insurmountable challenges that stood between him and his dreams.

Table of Contents

Lionel Messi Biography Quick Facts, Age

Here are some quick biography facts you should know about the Argentine professional football player.

Lionel Messi Childhood & Early Life

Lionel Andres Messi Cuccittini was given birth to on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, to a steel factory manager, Jorge Messi and his wife Celia Cuccittini. Messi was the third of four children they gave birth to. He grew up in a family where the game of football was adored.

At a tender age, he played with his elder brothers before joining a local club, Grandoli, before moving on to Newell’s Old Boys. At Grandoli, Messi was coached by his father, but his grandmother accompanied him to his matches as well as training. He was thus affected by her. His unique style of celebration which involves looking up and pointing to the sky is a tribute to his late grandmother.

Messi’s dream of becoming a professional footballer was threatened when he clocked 10 years. He was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. As a result of his family’s inability to bear the expense of his treatment, they resorted to football clubs who saw Messi as a potential to bear the cost. After several setbacks, Messi’s treatment cost was paid for by Barcelona. After his transfer to Barcelona, he did not make appearances regularly in matches due to transfer issues with Newell as well as the unusual signing of foreign plays by European Clubs. After joining the Royal Spanish Football Federation, he began playing for Barcelona. Upon completion of his growth hormone deficiency treatment, he became a force to reckon with in the Barcelona youth team.

Lionel Messi Club Career

Fc barcelona.

Messi progressed through the ranks of Barcelona’s junior team, leading to his move to the senior team. He debuted for five teams in a season. During the international break, Messi was among the few players who helped strengthen the first team in the absence of the players. Messi finally debuted for the senior team at the age of 16. Messi’s wondrous performance earned him the friendship of Barcelona’s star Ronaldinho, who enabled him to have a smooth transition into the first team. His remarkable antics earned him a juicy contract in 2004 set to expire in 2012, the first professional contract he signed, had a buyout clause of 30 million euros which increased to 80 million euros.

In the 2004–2005 season, he became a regular starter in Barcelona’s B-team. However, he was a substitute player in the A-team, debuting for them in the league on October 16 against Espanyol. Messi signed a new contract with Barcelona as a senior team player on his 18th birthday. The contract was set to expire in 2010, with a buyout clause of 150 million euros. Messi caught the attention of European top clubs, one of such Inter Milan indicated interest in Messi, offering to triple his wages as well as pay his 150 million euros’ buyout clause. However, Messi opted to stay. In September of that season, his contract was updated and was set to expire in 2014. After acquiring Spanish citizenship Messi began playing alongside Samuel Eto’o and Ronaldinho forging a powerful attacking trio.

During the 2006–2007 season, at the age of 19, Messi became one of the best players in the world. Despite suffering injuries, Messi proved his similarity to Argentina’s legend Diego Maradona after several comparisons. A notable event which speaks of this truth was the 2006–2007 Copa del Rey semi-final against Getafe, where he scored a goal similar to Maradona’s 1986 FIFA World Cup goal dubbed as the Goal of the Century. Following the decline of Ronaldinho, Messi became Barcelona’s new star, with Spanish media calling him “Messiah”. He emerged second third in the 2007 Ballon d’Or and second in the FIFA World Player of the Year Award. Following the departure of Ronaldinho, Messi was given the no.10 jersey and signed a new contract with an annual salary of 7.8 million euros, Barcelona’s highest.

In 2008, he came second in the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year Award.

He However won the Ballon d’Or and FIFA Player of the year in 2009, at the age of 22. That season Messi had a successful campaign, winning the second consecutive La Liga title.

In 2010, Messi won the inaugural FIFA Ballon d’Or despite his failure at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Messi finished the 2010–2011 season as Barcelona’s all-time single-season highest scorer and the first player in Spain to pass the 50-goal benchmark. Thanks to his wonderful performance, Messi created a reputation for himself as a creator (no. 8), a scorer (no. 9) and an assistant (no. 10). He received the 2011 FIFA Ballon d’Or award as well as the inaugural UEFA Best Player in Europe Award. Due to his numerous achievements, Messi was regarded as one of the best in the history of the game.

Messi’s incredible form continued, in 2012, he was bestowed with the Guinness book of record title for most goals scored in a calendar year as well as the FIFA Ballon d’Or Award.

In the 2013–2014 season, Messi signed a new contract with Barcelona which will see him at Camp Nou until 2018. After Messi sustained an injury and deemed unfit for Barcelona’s champions league match against Bayern Munich, the Catalan Giant were defeated 7-0 on aggregate. Barcelona was heavily criticized for their dismal performance which shows their dependence on the Argentine star. His campaign that season was the worst he had in five years. He signed a new contract with Barcelona which saw his salary increase from 20 million euros to 36 million euros. Under the leadership of new coach, Luis Enrique. Messi became La Liga’s all-time top-scorer. He came second in the 2014 FIFA Ballon d’Or awards for the second time in a row. Messi established an attacking trio with teammates Suarez and Neymar which prove to be deadly to opponents. At the end of the season, he received the UEFA Best Player in Europe.

In the 2015–2016 season, Messi became the youngest person to make 100 appearances in the champions league. Messi also helped Barcelona claim the 2015 Club World Cup Final, where he was awarded the tournament’s Silver Ball. Messi emerged a runner-up to Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2016 Ballon d’Or award as well as the 2016 Best FIFA Men’s Player Award, he also claimed the Pichichi and European Golden Boot.

Messi also had a spectacular and incredible performance in the 2017–2018 season, but not spectacular enough to earn him the Ballon d’Or award. Messi was handed the captaincy in the 2018–2019 season following the departure of Andres Iniesta.

Lionel Messi National Team Career

The ace footballer has scored 65 goals in 128 appearances for the Argentina National team. He, however, has failed to extend his successful run with Barcelona to the La Albiceleste. Though he has always put up a good performance, every time he leads the La Albiceleste to a tournament, they end up crashing out in the quarter-final, semi-final or final.

In the 2006 World Cup, Messi who was pretty young was part of the Argentine squad who were knocked out in the quarter-final. Eight years later, on South-American soil, Messi led the La Albiceleste to a wonderful run in the world Cup before seeing his World Cup dream dashed after a late lone strike by their German opponents. The Copa America tournament has also been the same, emerging runners-up successively.

Lionel Messi Family & Personal Life

Lionel Messi is known to be an introvert as well as a reserved individual.

He began his relationship with his wife who he had known since the age of 5, at the age of 20. They got married in Rosario, in 2017. They gave birth to their first son Thiago in 2012, their second Mateo in 2015 and last Ciro in 2018.

Messi has a tight-knitted relationship with his mother, Celia whose face he tattooed on his hand. Messi’s father has been his agent since the age of 14, while his elder brother manages his daily schedule and publicity, his mother and brother, Matias runs his charitable organization, The Lionel Messi Foundation. Since 2010, Messi has been a goodwill ambassador for the UNICEF.

Messi also supports grassroots football. He has an investment with youth football team Sarmiento, based in Rosario.

Messi has also had his fair share of tax evasion charges. In 2013, he was investigated for benefiting in a network of offshore companies to evade taxes. Despite pleading ignorance for the tax evasion charges, Messi was found guilty of tax evasion along with his father and was sentenced to a suspended 21-month prison term and fined 1.7 million euros and 1.4 million euros.

Lionel Messi Highlights, Achievements & Awards

Tournaments won.

• U-20 World Cup champion (2005)
• Spanish Super Cup (Supercopa) (2005/06, 2006/07, 2009/10, 2010/11, 2011/12, 2013/14, 2016/17, 2018/19)
• Spanish Cup (Copa del Rey) (2008/09, 2011/12, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17,2017/18)
• FIFA Club World Cup (2009, 2011, 2015)
• UEFA Supercup (2009/10, 2011/12, 2015/16)
• Olympics Medalist (2008/09)
• Spanish Champion (La Liga) (2004/05 2005/06, 2008/09, 2009/10, 2010/11, 2012/13, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2017/18)
• UEFA Champions League (2005/06, 2008/09, 2010/11, 2014/15)

Individual Awards

• Golden Boot (2016/17)
• Striker of the Year (2014/15)
• Player of the Year (2014 World Cup, 2014/15 La Liga, 2015 Copa America)
• UEFA Best Player in Europe (2009, 2011, 2015)
• Top-scorer (2008/09, 2010/11 & 2013/14 Copa del Rey, 2008/09, 2009/10, 2010/11, 2011/12, 2013/14 & 2014/15 UEFA Champions League, 2009/10, 2010/11 & 2011/12 Supercopa, 2009/10, 2011/12, 2012/13 & 2016/17 La Liga, 2011 FIFA Club World Cup)
• Top-10 Highest-Paid Football/Soccer Players 2019
• Top-20 Best Football Academies In The World 2019

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If you have concerns about something that doesn’t look right in this Lionel Messi Biography Facts, Childhood, Career, Life, please don’t hesitate to contact us .

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Lionel MESSI

Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1987, Lionel Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, and his illustrious career proves why. The Argentinean footballer, who holds a record eight Ballon d'Or awards , has displayed his talent early on and has always been destined for greatness.

When Messi was 13 years old, he and his family moved to Barcelona, where the club assisted him in treating his growth hormone deficiency . He started playing for FC Barcelona's U14 team. The Argentinean quickly rose through the ranks, impressing everyone with exceptional skills and talent. At 17, he made his first senior appearance for the club and became a vital player for the Blaugranas.

The Rosario's native relationship with Barcelona has been very successful. During his 17-year career with the team, he helped them win numerous titles, including 10 La Liga titles , four Champions League crowns , and seven Copa del Rey trophies . He is also the all-time leading scorer in La Liga , with an incredible 474 goals to his name. He left the Spanish club in 2021 to join French powerhouse Paris Saint Germain , where he played two years before joining Inter Miami in the MLS.

On the international stage, the former Barca star has been a standout player for his country. He was instrumental in helping them win the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar, where he won the Golden Ball , awarded to the competition's best player. He was also part of the team that won Olympic gold at the Beijing 2008 Games, which remains one of his most treasured career highlights.

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‘A phenomenon’ – What Lionel Messi and Neymar have said about each other

After bidding an emotional farewell to Barcelona , Lionel Messi has decided to join  Paris Saint-Germain  and reunite with Neymar. 

The pair spent four years playing together at the Nou Camp, winning two La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

We’ve looked at what they have said about each other over the years.

‘He has great potential’

“He’s going to get it [the Balon d’Or], through his qualities, the way he is, I’ve no doubt that he can at some time win it,” Messi said in 2014.

“He has great potential, he’s a player who has a lot of qualities and he can go as far as he wants. I’m lucky enough to rub shoulders with terrific players on the pitch and he’s among them.”

‘Very special’

“Honestly, it’s difficult, very difficult for me to talk about Messi, because it was very special for me at Barcelona, I say this to everybody,” Neymar told Rede Globo’s Esporte Espetacular in February 2019.

“At the moment when I needed the most support, the best player in the world arrived and gave me a hand. He said: ‘Come here, I’m here to help you.'”

◾️ 161 Games ◾️ 120 Wins ◾️ 56 Goals together ◾️ 36 Goals scored by Messi 🅰️ by Neymar ◾️ 20 Goals scored by Neymar 🅰️ by Messi ◾️ 8 Trophies RUN IT BACK 🔥 pic.twitter.com/kLKBtJB6yU — CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) August 10, 2021

‘One of the best players in the world’

“The truth is I would have loved him to come back to us [Barcelona],” Messi told Spanish newspaper Sport in September 2019.

“I understand some people were against it and that’s normal considering everything that happened and how he left us, but thinking about it on a sporting level, for me Neymar is one of the best players in the world.

“Obviously he would have increased our chances of getting the results that we all want. The club would have taken a leap forward, in terms of sponsors, our image, our growth, but in the end it didn’t happen.”

‘From another planet’

“The two who are above all others today are Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi,” Neymar said to Brazilian YouTube channel Desimpedidos in 2018. “For all modesty, today I am the best player in the world – because they are from another planet.”

READ: 15 brilliant La Liga records that Lionel Messi holds after Barcelona departure

‘He gave all the players a lift’

“Neymar is one of the best in the world and I’d love him to come back,” Messi told Mundo Deportivo in February 2020. “He is a very happy person who is always smiling and enjoys himself on and off the pitch. He gave all the players a lift.

“It’s normal for the fans to feel [resentment about his possible return] because of the way he left, and that also bothered me at the time because we tried to do everything possible to try to convince him not to do it.

“At the end of the day, we all want to win. We all want to have the best and that goes for the fans, who want to see good football and success.

“I think Neymar really wants to come back. He’s sorry about what he did and last year he tried hard to come back. I think that [apologising] would be the first step he would take to try to make it happen.”

‘An honour to play with him’

“For me, he’s the best player in the world. The best player that I’ve ever seen play,” Neymar said in 2019. “We made a magnificent duo. It was a pleasure for me, an honour to play with him. And, on top of that, he is my friend.”

‘I want to play with Messi again’

“What I want most of all is to play with Messi again, to be able to enjoy him once again on the pitch,” Neymar told ESPN in December 2020.

“He can play in my place, I have no problem with that! But I want to play with him next year, for sure. We have to do it next season.”

pic.twitter.com/4fhbF4LJVV — Reshad Rahman (@ReshadRahman_) August 10, 2021

‘A phenomenon’

“I have a group on WhatsApp where we are – Suarez, Neymar and me,” Messi told Fox Sports Argentina In June 2019.

“Neymar is a phenomenon and yes, we continue to talk. The name of the group has something to do with South America … ‘The Three Sudacas’ or something like that.”

‘My idol’

“I played with Messi, who is, for me, one of the greatest footballers of all time, and he is my idol in football,” Neymar told the Players’ Tribune in 2018. “With Messi, I learned every day, whether during practice, or playing with him, or just watching him play.”

A new 💎 in Paris ! PSGxMESSI ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/2JpYSRtpCy — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) August 10, 2021

‘I cheered for him’

“Messi is, as I’ve always said, the best player I’ve ever seen play and he’s a great friend, but now we’re in a final, we’re rivals,” Neymar said ahead of the 2021 Copa America final between Argentina and Brazil.

“I want to win and I really want to win this title, which would be my first Copa America. Messi has been looking for his first title with the national team for many years, and every time we [Brazil] are not present at the tournament, I cheered for him. That’s what I’ve been cheering for in the 2014 World Cup final, when he faced Germany.”

‘Extremely tough’

“Brazil with Neymar are going to be extremely tough,” Messi said before the final. “We know their potential, what Ney can do individually.”

Watch: Lionel Messi consoles Neymar after Argentina win Copa final

‘My friend and brother’

“Losing hurts me and it’s something I still haven’t learned to live with,” Neymar wrote on Instagram after Brazil’s 1-0 defeat to Argentina.

“Yesterday, when I lost, I went to give a hug to the greatest and best I have ever seen play in football history, my friend and brother Messi. I was sad and I joked to him ‘you son of a bitch, you’ve beaten me!’

“I’m very sad to have lost, but this guy is awesome! I have great respect for what he has done for football and especially for me. I hate to lose! But enjoy your title. Football was waiting for you for that moment! Congratulations brother.”

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Neymar Biography, Early Life, Achievements, Transfer History, & Facts

Neymar Jr. is a Brazilian professional footballer widely regarded as one of the most talented players in the world. In this article, we’ll explore his early life, career achievements, controversies, transfer history, impact on Brazilian football, performance in international competitions, partnership with Messi and Mbappe at PSG, brand endorsements, personal life and relationships, and future prospects in football.

Neymar da Silva Santos Junior, known simply as Neymar, is a Brazilian football superstar who was born on February 5, 1992, in Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, Brazil. The son of Nadine Santos and Neymar Santos Sr., he grew up in a small apartment with his sister Rafaella and his parents.

Neymar’s father was also a professional football player, and he played a significant role in his son’s early life. From a young age, Neymar showed a strong interest in football and would often accompany his father to training sessions and matches.

Despite being raised in a humble background, Neymar’s passion for football continued to grow, and he began playing for local clubs. He quickly gained attention from scouts, and at the age of 11, he joined the youth academy of Santos FC, one of the most prestigious football clubs in Brazil.

Under the guidance of renowned coach Ney Franco, Neymar developed his skills and became a prominent member of the club’s youth teams. In 2009, at the age of 17, he made his professional debut for Santos FC, and it wasn’t long before he became a household name in Brazil.

In his first season, Neymar scored 14 goals in 48 appearances and helped Santos win their first Copa do Brasil since 1963. Over the next three seasons, Neymar established himself as one of the best players in Brazil, leading Santos to three consecutive Sao Paulo State Championships and scoring 54 goals in 103 appearances.

Neymar’s Career

Neymar has gained worldwide recognition for his exceptional skills and impressive performances on the field. He started playing football at a young age of four and joined the Santos academy when he was eleven years old.

Neymar’s career began to take off in 2009 when he made his debut for Santos FC as a 17-year-old. He quickly became one of the most sought-after players in Brazil, and his success in the Brasileirao league led to him being named the competition’s best young player in both 2010 and 2011. During his time at Santos, Neymar won numerous titles, including the Campeonato Paulista, Copa do Brasil, and the Copa Libertadores.

In 2013, Neymar signed with Barcelona for a transfer fee of €57 million, where he formed one of the greatest attacking trios in football history with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. His time at Barcelona saw him win two La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey titles, and the UEFA Champions League in 2015. Neymar also made headlines in 2015 when he finished third in the Ballon d’Or rankings, behind Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

After four successful seasons at Barcelona, Neymar made a world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in August 2017 for a fee of €222 million. His first season at PSG saw him win the domestic treble, which included the Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, and Coupe de la Ligue. However, his second season was marred by injuries, and PSG was knocked out of the UEFA Champions League in the round of 16.

Neymar has also represented Brazil at the international level, winning the Olympic gold medal with the team in 2016. He has scored more than 70 goals for the national team and has been a key player in their recent success, including winning the Copa America in 2019.

Despite his immense talent on the field, Neymar has also faced controversies throughout his career. He has been accused of diving and simulation, and he was involved in a highly publicized transfer saga between Barcelona and PSG in 2017.

Neymar’s Achievements and Awards

Neymar has won numerous individual and team awards throughout his career. He has been named South American Footballer of the Year four times, and in 2015 he finished third in the Ballon d’Or voting, behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Neymar has also won major team honors, including the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, Ligue 1, and Copa Libertadores . In 2016, he played a key role in Brazil winning their first Olympic gold medal in football. He was the tournament’s joint top scorer with six goals and provided the decisive penalty in the final shootout against Germany.

Here are some of Neymar’s career achievements:

• FIFA Confederations Cup Golden Ball (2013)
• FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball (2011, 2015)
• Copa Libertadores Top Scorer (2011)
• La Liga Top Scorer (2014–15)
• UEFA Champions League Top Scorer (2015–16)
• Ligue 1 Top Scorer (2017–18)
• Ligue 1 Player of the Year (2017–18)
• UEFA Team of the Year (2015, 2016, 2017)

Neymar has never won the Ballon d’Or, but he is considered to be one of the favorites to win the award in the future.

Neymar’s Transfer History

Neymar’s transfer history is a tale of high-stakes negotiations, big-money moves, and shattered records. The Brazilian forward burst onto the scene as a teenager with Santos FC in his home country, attracting the attention of some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

After several years of speculation and rumors, Neymar finally made the move to Barcelona in 2013 for a reported fee of €57 million. He quickly became an integral part of the team alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, helping to form the famed “MSN” attacking trio.

During his four seasons at Barca, Neymar won two La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey trophies, and one Champions League title. He also established himself as one of the best players in the world, finishing in the top three of the Ballon d’Or voting twice.

But despite his success at Barca, Neymar was reportedly unhappy playing in Messi’s shadow and sought a move away from the club. In 2017, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) came calling with an offer too good to refuse – a world-record transfer fee of €222 million.

Neymar immediately became the most expensive player in history, surpassing the previous record held by Paul Pogba’s €105 million move to Manchester United. His arrival in Paris was met with much fanfare, as PSG hoped he would be the final piece of the puzzle in their quest for European dominance.

However, things haven’t gone quite as planned for Neymar at PSG. Despite winning back-to-back Ligue 1 titles in his first two seasons, he has yet to lead the team to Champions League glory – the primary goal of the Qatari-backed club.

Despite the ups and downs of his time in Paris, Neymar remains one of the most talented and marketable players in the world. He has been linked with a return to Barcelona and a move to Real Madrid in recent years, but as of now, he remains a key player for PSG as they look to finally conquer Europe.

Neymar’s Partnership with Messi and Mbappe at PSG

Neymar’s partnership with Messi and Mbappe at PSG has been one of the most highly anticipated collaborations in modern football history. The trio, often referred to as the ‘MNM’ or ‘MCN’ (depending on who is included), represents a formidable attacking force that has the potential to dominate both domestically and in Europe.

Neymar and Messi’s friendship dates back to their time together at Barcelona, where they played alongside each other for four seasons. During this period, they formed an incredibly successful partnership, helping the Catalan giants win numerous domestic and European titles. Despite going their separate ways in 2017, the two have remained close friends, with Neymar regularly expressing his admiration for the Argentine superstar.

The addition of Kylian Mbappe to the mix only serves to increase the firepower of PSG’s forward line. Like Neymar and Messi, Mbappe is considered one of the best players in world football, having already won numerous individual awards and helped France win the World Cup in 2018. His speed and finishing ability make him a constant threat to opposition defenses, and his ability to play off both Neymar and Messi adds another dimension to PSG’s attack.

However, while many fans and pundits are excited about the prospect of the ‘MNM’ tearing up defenses across Europe, there are also concerns about how they will all fit into the same team. All three players excel in similar positions, and it remains to be seen whether PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino can find a way to accommodate them all without sacrificing the team’s overall balance.

Despite these concerns, there’s no denying that the potential upside of Neymar’s partnership with Messi and Mbappe is huge. If the trio can gel on the pitch, PSG could become one of the most dominant teams in world football, capable of winning multiple trophies and establishing themselves as a true footballing superpower.

Neymar’s Brand Endorsementsand Business Ventures

With his skills on the field and charming personality off it, Neymar has become a popular figure not just among football fans but also in the world of fashion and entertainment.

As a result, Neymar has been able to leverage his popularity and build a lucrative brand through various endorsement deals and business ventures.

One of Neymar’s most prominent brand endorsements is with Nike , which signed him when he was just 13 years old. Since then, he has appeared in numerous advertising campaigns for the sportswear giant, including the popular “ Dream Crazy ” campaign in 2018. The deal is reportedly worth around $105 million over 11 years, making it one of the most lucrative in football.

Neymar has also endorsed other major brands such as Red Bull, Gillette , and Panasonic . He has even launched his own fragrance line, called “Neymar Jr. Comics,” in collaboration with Diesel Fragrances. The fragrance line features two different scents and is inspired by comic book superheroes.

In addition to his brand endorsements, Neymar has also ventured into business ownership. He is a shareholder in several companies, including his former club Santos FC, where he owns 5% of the club’s shares. He also co-owns a company called NN Consultoria , which manages his image rights and handles his business affairs.

Perhaps Neymar’s most significant business venture to date is his esports team, called “ Neymar Jr. E-Sports .” The team competes in the popular soccer game FIFA, and Neymar himself has been actively involved in promoting the team and its players. The team has also partnered with other esports organizations and sponsors to further grow its brand.

Neymar’s Impact on Brazilian Football

Neymar’s impact on Brazilian football cannot be overstated. He is widely regarded as the successor to the great Brazilian players such as Pele and Ronaldo, and his performances for the national team have been outstanding. He has scored over 70 goals in 110 appearances for Brazil, making him the third-highest scorer in the country’s history. Neymar has also helped Brazil win major tournaments, including the Confederations Cup in 2013 and the Copa America in 2019.

Neymar’s Personal Life and Relationships

Neymar’s personal life has been subject to intense media scrutiny throughout his career. He has been in several high-profile relationships, including with Brazilian actress Bruna Marquezine and Spanish model Natalia Barulich. He also has a son named David Lucca da Silva Santos, born in 2011, whom he shares custody with his former girlfriend.

Controversies in Neymar’s Career

Neymar is one of the most talented footballers in the world, but he has also been involved in a number of controversies throughout his career. Here are some of the most notable:

• His transfer from Santos to Barcelona in 2013 was shrouded in controversy. There were allegations that Neymar’s father had received a large sum of money from Barcelona as a signing bonus, which is illegal under FIFA rules. Neymar was also accused of faking an injury to force a move to Barcelona.
• In 2016, Neymar was suspended for three matches by UEFA for insulting match officials on social media after PSG were eliminated from the Champions League by Manchester United.
• In 2017, he made a high-profile move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for a world-record fee of €222 million. However, his time at PSG has been marred by injuries and disciplinary issues.
• In 2018, Neymar was accused of rape by a woman in Paris. Neymar has denied the allegations. Najila Trindade ,his accuser, has been accused of lying to police and attempting to blackmail the player
• In 2019, Neymar was banned for three games by the French Football Federation for assaulting a fan after PSG lost the Coupe de France final.
• In 2020, Neymar was criticized for his behavior during the Copa America, where he was accused of diving and faking injuries. Brazil were eventually knocked out of the tournament by Argentina in the final.

Neymar’s talent is undeniable, but his off-field antics have often overshadowed his on-field performances. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to overcome his controversies and cement his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

In addition to the controversies mentioned above, Neymar has also been criticized for his perceived lack of commitment to his team, his frequent injuries, and his lavish lifestyle. However, his supporters argue that he is a victim of unfair scrutiny and that he is one of the most exciting and talented players in the world.

Only time will tell how Neymar’s career will ultimately be judged. However, there is no doubt that he is a polarizing figure who has generated a lot of discussion and debate.

Neymar’s career has not been without controversy. In 2013, he was involved in a transfer dispute between Santos and Barcelona, which resulted in legal action being taken against him. In 2017, he made a high-profile move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for a world-record fee of €222 million. However, his time at PSG has been marred by injuries and disciplinary issues. In 2019, he was accused of sexual assault by a Brazilian model, which he denied. The case was eventually dropped due to lack of evidence.

Neymar is undoubtedly one of the greatest footballers of his generation. His talent and achievements on the pitch have made him a global superstar, while his business ventures and endorsements have cemented his status as one of the most marketable athletes in the world. However, his career has not been without controversy, and his future remains uncertain. Regardless of what lies ahead, there is no denying that Neymar has left an indelible mark on Brazilian football and the sport as a whole.

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Messi, suarez & neymar: the best goalscoring trio in every season since 99/00.

Are Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez & Neymar the best trio in football history?

Will there ever be a better attacking trident than Lionel Messi , Luis Suarez and Neymar ?

It's hard to see another trio topping Barcelona 's famous 'MSN', the South American stars breaking a ridiculous number of records during their three years together in Catalonia.

From the start of the 2014/15 season to the end of 2016/17, the three amigos scored a combined total of 363 goals. No, that's not a typo.

Their numbers are absolutely obscene, but Messi, Suarez and Neymar are also not the only trio to find the back of the net over 100 times in the 21st century.

You can find out who the others are by checking out our list featuring the highest scoring trio in every single season since 1999/2000.

All stats sourced from Transfermarkt .

Jan Koller (29), Tomasz Radzinski (28) & Alin Stoica (12) | Anderlecht

Total goals: 69

Ruud van Nistelrooy (36), Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (25) & David Beckham (16) | Manchester United

Total goals: 77

Ruud van Nistelrooy (44), Paul Scholes (20) & Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (15) | Manchester United

Total goals: 79

Thierry Henry (39), Robert Pires (19) & Freddie Ljungberg (10) | Arsenal

Total goals: 68

Roy Makaay (34), Claudio Pizarro (21) & Michael Ballack (18) | Bayern Munich

Total goals: 73 goals

Samuel Eto'o (34), Ronaldinho (26) & Henrik Larsson (15) | Barcelona

Total goals: 75

Didier Drogba (33), Frank Lampard (21) & Andriy Shevchenko (14) | Chelsea

Cristiano Ronaldo (42), Carlos Tevez (19) & Wayne Rooney (18) | Manchester United

Lionel Messi (38), Samuel Eto'o (36) & Thierry Henry (26) | Barcelona

Total goals: 100

Luis Suarez (49), Marko Pantelic (21) & Siem de Jong (17) | Ajax

Total goals: 87

Lionel Messi (53), David Villa (23) & Pedro Rodriguez (22) | Barcelona

Total goals: 98

Cristiano Ronaldo (60), Karim Benzema (32) & Gonzalo Higuain (26) | Real Madrid

Total goals: 118 goals

Cristiano Ronaldo (55), Karim Benzema (20) & Gonzalo Higuain (18) | Real Madrid

Total goals: 93

Jonathan Soriano (48), Alan (37) & Sadio Mane (23) | Red Bull Salzburg

Total goals: 108

Lionel Messi (58), Neymar (39) & Luis Suarez (25) | Barcelona

Total goals: 122

Luis Suarez (59), Lionel Messi (41) & Neymar (31) | Barcelona

Total goals: 131 goals

Lionel Messi (54), Luis Suarez (36) & Neymar (20) | Barcelona

Total goals: 110

Mohamed Salah (44), Roberto Firmino (27) & Sadio Mane (20) | Liverpool

Total goals: 91

Lionel Messi (53), Luis Suarez (23) & Ousmane Dembele (14) | Barcelona

Total goals: 88

Robert Lewandowski (55), Serge Gnabry (23) & Thomas Muller (14) | Bayern Munich

Total goals: 92

Kylian Mbappe (42), Neymar (17) & Moise Kean (17) | Paris Saint-Germain

Total goals: 76

ENTER GIVEAWAY

Will Messi, Suarez and Neymar's tally of 131 goals in a season be topped by another trio? Well, we can't see it happening for quite some time, that's for sure.

Messi, Eto'o and Henry were the first three-man act to achieve a century of goals, before Ronaldo, Benzema and Higuain dwarfed their total by netting a combined total of 118.

Salzburg trio Soriano, Alan and Mane then got in on the act in 2013/14 with 108 of their own.

Then the MSN happened and, well, things just haven't been the same since...

Quiz: Can you name the footballer based on their Wikipedia page?

Lionel Messi PSG press conference live updates: Latest news after transfer and Barcelona exit

15 New Updates

Lionel Messi has completed his move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Messi joined PSG on a two-year deal with the option of a third. He left Barcelona as a free agent after 21 years.

“The six-time Ballon d'Or winner is justifiably considered a legend of the game and a true inspiration for those of all ages inside and outside football.

“The signing of Leo reinforces Paris St Germain's aspirations as well as providing the club's loyal fans with not only an exceptionally talented squad, but also moments of incredible football in the coming years.”

He will take part in a press conference at 10am on Wednesday.

Follow live reaction to this breaking news story below.

(Photo: STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN/AFP via Getty Images)

Neymar and Messi reunited

It's hard not to be happy that good friends Neymar and Messi have been reunited and will play together for the first time in four years.

"Of course I have some friends here in the dressing room. When you see the squad you really want to play with them because there are so many possibilities to get what you want. We've got the same goals, when we were not together, we had the same goal and now we are together with Neymar and the rest of the team, I hope we can make it. Di Maria, Paredes, I know all the players in the dressing room actually. Neymar did a lot and was important in my decision."

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Are PSG the favourite to win the Champions League?

When asked if Paris Saint-Germain are the favourites to win the Champions League CEO Al-Khelaifi didn't want to get ahead of himself.

"I think our team are very good but we've never won the Champions League. I think we need to win each game. Last year was very complicated. It's not easy. We're focused and we take it one step at a time. We don't hide our goal or our objective. We focus on Ligue 1 and after September 15 we think about the Champions League. It is easy to say we are favourites but we need to remain quiet and work."

What does Messi think he can bring to PSG?

It seems weird asking one of the best players in the world what he thinks he can bring to PSG. Perhaps it would be quicker to ask what he wouldn't bring to Paris.

Messi said: "I think this team is already done and ready. There are some new transfers but they have been close to win the Champions League. they are ready. I have just come to give my best. My goal and my dream is to win again this trophy. I think Paris is the best place to win it again."

What does a team need to win the Champions League? - luck!

The Champions League trophy will be the aim for Messi and PSG. Speaking from his experience, luck must be considered.

"It's not easy. Sometimes the best team in the world doesn't win the Champions League. This is football. Paris have been so close to a victory in the Champions League, they didn't make it but it was close. In this competition, the best teams in the world are playing. You need a united dressing room. This dressing room, from what you can see outside, is very united, but you also need the luck. You can also chase the luck. In the Champions League, not always the best team wins. It's a very special competition and that's why it is so beautiful and so important, because they all want to win."

Mbappe can't do anything but stay

Al-Khelaifi spoke confidently on the future of Kylian Mbappe who has been linked with Real Madrid throughout the summer.

"Everyone knows the future of Kylian. He is a competitive player, he wants to win, he wants to win trophies. He wants a competitive team, we have the most competitive team in the world. He can't do anything but stay."

"I am really grateful"

Messi thanked all of the fans for the support he has been given during the transfer.

"I am really grateful. I am grateful to the people in the street. I was in Barcelona when the press spoke about it. I saw things from Spain, the people were already outside in the streets, I am really grateful. I want to thank them. I want to see them now, I want to see them in the city, in the stadium. It will be an incredible year and I really want to enjoy this."

"We want to win all of the trophies"

PSG president Al-Khelaifi made it clear Paris Saint-Germain have always wanted to win.

He said: "I think that our goal, everybody knows. We want to win all of the trophies, all of the games. It never changed. Now with Leo, we are close to winning but we want to win more. I think now we need to work and to win each game, to win the trophy, we really need to have discipline to win every game."

"Everything that happened to me the last week has been strange"

When asked what's the strongest feeling, the joy at joining PSG or the sadness at leaving Barcelona Messi explained the events over the past week as "strange".

He said: "Everything that happened to me the last week has been strange, it has been hard and emotional. I can't forget what I lived and experienced in Barcelona, but I feel really impatient and happy about this new life at a sport level and with my family as well. This whole week I have been going through ups and downs, but we are processing these every day a little by little."

When will Messi play?

Every football fan is waiting with bated breath to know when Lionel Messi will make his first appearance for Paris Saint-Germain.

Messi was asked when he thinks he will be able to play his first minutes.

"I don't know," said Messi. "I was on holidays and it's very new. I spoke yesterday with the technical staff, so maybe I need a pre-season myself. I am going to begin to train and work. I hope I can play as soon as I can. I really want to. But I can't exactly answer your question. When I feel it, when the staff thinks I am ok, then I will be ready to play."

Messi on playing with Neymar and Mbappe

The first question for Lionel Messi was of course on how he feels playing alongside Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

He said: "It is really crazy and I am really happy about that. Sharing the day to day life with them and all the squad. There are some amazing transfers. The team is incredible. I really want to train and compete now. I am going to be playing with the best players. It's an incredible experience to be able to enjoy this."

Messi's first words as a PSG player

Lionel Messi is straight to the point, speaking openly and honestly about his own transfer. He said: "First of all, I have to thank the president for his words. I am very happy. You all know how my exit from Barcelona happened, it has been a very hard moment after so many years, it was a difficult change after so much time. But the moment I arrived here I felt very happy. I really want to begin the training sessions, I really want it to be quick.

"I am really enjoying my time in Paris since the first minutes, my family and my people. My only will now is to begin the training sessions. I want to work with the staff and my team-mates and begin this new moment. I was to thank Leonardo and the president and the club for the way they received me since the press release in Barcelona. They were very quick in the negotiations, it was very easy. It was a tricky situation and they sorted problems. I am very happy to be here, and this will to play, I am really impatient. I still want to play, I still want to win as I did in the first moment of my career.

"I think this club, with this staff, is ready to fight for every trophy. I want to keep growing, keep winning titles and that is why I came here to this club. I really want to thank Paris. It has been all crazy, my arrival it was a surprise, so thank you for the way they received me and I am sure I will enjoy the time with this team, and we will fight for the aim of this club. I really want to begin now."

Nasser Al-Khelaifi excited by Messi signing

Paris Saint-Germain chairman and CEO Nasser Al-Khelaifi kicked off the press conference by saying some kind words about Lionel Messi and his thoughts on the signing.

He said: "I am very proud to present Leo Messi as a Paris Saint-Germain player. This is an amazing and historic day for the club, for the football world, it is a fantastic moment for us.

"Everybody knows Leo. He is the only football player who won six times the Ballon d'Or. He makes football magical, beautiful and he is a winner. It will be very exciting for our supporters, the fans and worldwide. It is obviously today amazing what we tried to achieve, Leonardo, Jean-Claude, the club, the fans. I remember the first day, Leonardo, 10 years ago, there were people who said 'What are they going to do?'. We had big ambition, high ambition, a football project, we are very proud of where we are today thanks to everybody. There is no secret and this agreement with the best player in the world, Leo, there was a great desire between both sides to make this happen.

"I would like to thank Leo, your wife, your father Jorge and the team for the fantastic job and making it happen. I don't forget my sport director Leonardo. I am very proud of you. You are doing a fantastic job for the club and for the supporter and the history of the club. Jean-Claude, thank you very much. Also, I would like to thank our commercial partners, I am very grateful to them, who believed in our project from day one. Today is an amazing moment, we have not won anything, this is just the start and the hard work will start now.

"We have someone here next to me, he won lots of trophies and I am sure he will bring lots of trophies to the club, with his squad, with his team-mates, the best players in the world, and amazing coach, for me he is the best in the world."

Good morning! Messi press conference shortly

Well last night was exciting wasn't it?!

It felt both weird and exciting to see Lionel Messi in a Paris Saint-Germain shirt — and number 30!

In about 10 minutes time Messi will be chatting to the media in his first press conference for PSG and I will be providing you with updates here throughout.

Messi said on Tuesday: “I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain. Everything about the club matches my football ambitions. I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here.

“I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes.”

Nasser Al-Khelaifi, the club’s chairman and CEO, added: “I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him and his family to Paris.

“He has made no secret of his desire to continue competing at the very highest level and winning trophies, and naturally our ambition as a club is to do the same. The addition of Leo to our world class squad continues a very strategic and successful transfer window for the club.

“Led by our outstanding coach and his staff, I look forward to the team making history together for our fans all around the world.”

Paris Saint-Germain confirm Lionel Messi signing

After a long wait, PSG have finally confirmed the signing of Lionel Messi.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner will wear the number 30, his first shirt number at Barcelona.

For more detail, click here .

There he is!

We may still be waiting on an official announcement but there is absolutely no doubt that Lionel Messi is a Paris Saint-Germain player...

How the deal was done

When Barcelona revealed on Thursday afternoon that Lionel Messi would be leaving the club, Paris Saint-Germain did not know if they would be able to land their man.

PSG admired Messi, of course, and he has been a long-term dream signing for the Qatari ownership since they purchased an initial 70 per cent stake in the French club in 2011. Indeed, since buying PSG outright the following year, contact has been relatively frequent between club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and Jorge Messi, the father and agent of the Argentine player.

Al-Khelaifi made a concerted attempt to sign Messi last summer, when he came perilously close to a move away from Barcelona.

A year on, PSG have their man.

For the inside story on how PSG closed in on signing Messi over the last week, click below.

Messi’s 10 stages of greatness

It is over a decade now since Lionel Messi emerged as one of the very best players in the world. For many, he has stayed at the pinnacle ever since, although that does not mean he has been standing still. Far from it.

Messi has kept growing his game as each season has passed, to such an extent that the now 34-year-old is not immediately recognisable as the La Masia graduate who made his league debut for the club all the way back in October 2004.

The Athletic walks you through every step in the evolution of the best player in the world.

Messi, Neymar, Mbappe — will it work?

It's a scary thought: Neymar, Mbappe and Messi joining forces to dominate the French league and possibly European football, too.

That’s before adding Messi’s international colleague Angel Di Maria into the mix.

But there is one lingering doubt when considering the dynamic of this potential forward line — will it be possible for Pochettino to get the most out of Messi and Neymar, four years on from their separation at Barcelona?

The Athletic’s Tom Worville and Mark Carey have taken a look at the numbers in an attempt to work out how well the pair will play when reunited.

Neymar's mixed legacy after 15 years: where do we stand?

It was 15 years ago today that Neymar scored the first goal of his professional career, striking for Santos against Mogi Mirim in the Sao Paulo State Championship. A decade and a half later, he is the top goalscorer in the history of the Brazil national team, overtaking Pelé and flying past great names such as Ronaldo, Romario, and Zico. And even though he does plenty besides scoring, he is still widely considered a disappointment. Is this fair?

The case for the prosecution opens up with a simple observation. If football were purely a case of numbers, then it would be bingo. Statistical accumulation can never tell the full story. Pelé and his acolytes surely blundered by putting so much emphasis on a career total that topped 1,000 goals. The essence of Pelé is to be found, like that of all great players, in the big, decisive matches, the games where titles are won and reputations are made.

And while Neymar still has time to improve his side of the balance sheet, even he would agree that he cannot compete with Pelé on this score. Pelé has three World Cup wins to his name, and though he was injured in the early stages of the middle campaign, he was fundamental to the other two. What does Neymar have?

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Yes, he won Brazil's first Olympic gold medal in 2016. But that does not count as a senior title. Other than that, there is the Confederations Cup win of 2013, clinched with a stunning strike against reigning world champions Spain , but still a strictly second-rate tournament.

The case for the prosecution might also point out that so many of Neymar's goals for Brazil have come in friendlies, 46 of his total of 79 (including three in games when a cup was at stake but which were, in effect, glorified friendlies).

Luis Miguel Echegaray wonders if MLS is on the mind for Neymar once his contract with Saudi side Al Hilal is up.

The case for the defence has an easy reply. It is not his fault that he began his international career at a time when, as hosts of the 2014 World Cup, Brazil had little else but friendlies to dispute. And his record in competitive matches is pretty good -- just five goals in 12 Copa América games, but four in five in that 2013 Confederations Cup, 16 goals in 28 World Cup qualifiers, and, the undoubted top of the tree -- eight in 13 World Cup games.

Moreover, the case for the defense can also make the point that his World Cup participation has suffered unduly with injuries. He was, of course, ruled out of the rest of the 2014 tournament after suffering a brutal foul in the quarterfinal against Colombia . And his displays in 2018 and 2022 were at least as good as could have been expected given the need to be receptive from further injury setbacks.

Also, the argument might be made that had Brazil not suffered a shock last-minute goal against Croatia in the 2022 quarterfinal and then lost the penalty shootout, he would have been lauded as a hero for finally breaking the deadlock with a magnificent solo goal.

To which the case for the prosecution will rebut that legacies have no space for "what might have been," and that also he might bear a little bit of the responsibility for some of the injuries he has picked up. This is an odd point, but one which merits consideration, because it takes us closer to the heart of the Neymar story.

Of course, when a player is fouled and suffers an injury, it comes across as ridiculous to blame the one who has suffered the foul. Responsibility clearly lies with the offender. But, in a sport of physical contact, consideration must be given to the undeniable fact that ever since the ball has been rolling, talented players have been on the end of rough treatment. Indeed, contemporary players receive much more protection from referees than their predecessors did.

Avoiding fouls is, therefore, a necessary part of the skill set of a talented player, especially one of a frail build. This is second nature to the old-fashioned street footballer. He learns when to go for the dribble and, every bit as important, when to move the ball on and wait for a better opportunity.

But Neymar is not a street footballer in that sense. He grew up through futsal and developed a defense strategy around the presence of the referee. Often he has wanted to show to the referee that he is being fouled, and has tried to draw the foul. This has not proven a sound method of self-defense and has also frequently made little footballing sense -- some of his worst passages of play have been when he drops ever deeper in a quest to win meaningless free kicks.

It is hard to escape the conclusion that Neymar simply could not have operated in the era of Pelé, while Pelé would have had few problems adapting to the modern era. But Neymar is, of course, a child of his times, the epoch of football as big business in the global entertainment industry. He has been hothoused from an infant to thrive and prosper in this environment, as part of a project run by his father.

The case for the prosecution could certainly argue that this process has spoiled him, and left him with problems dealing with adversity. From a personal level, the biggest game of his career was the UEFA Champions League final for Paris Saint-Germain against Bayern Munich in 2020, where it was striking how much his game fell apart from the moment that the Germans scored. The pressure seemed all too much.

The case for the defense could rebut that the pressure seemed all too much because it was too much. Right from the start, it was clear that two measuring rods would be used to gauge the career of Neymar, at least in the eyes of his compatriots. One was winning the World Cup, which is always a collective achievement and depends on circumstances. The other is claiming the Ballon d'Or award. Brazilians used to see this trophy as a birthright, but not since Kaka in 2007 has one of them walked off with it. Neymar was supposed to put that right -- an exaggerated and unnecessary demand in a team sport, but one taken seriously.

It was this that provoked his move from Barcelona -- where he slotted in wonderfully well -- to PSG in 2017. How could he be the world's individual best when he was living in the house of Lionel Messi ? He had to break away and form his own family, and so he ended up in a league where the physicality did not suit him, with a club making that uncertain journey to unaccustomed heights. Is it any wonder that the project did not meet all of its objectives?

Counsels for the prosecution and the defense may now rest, pending new evidence. The story is not over yet. There are new chapters still to be written. It would be unwise to write off such a prodigiously gifted talent. Fifteen years in, we are clearly much closer to the end than to the beginning. But if he wants it and has the fortune to stay fit, then Neymar still has one World Cup ahead of him and possibly two.

Many in Brazil thought Pelé should not go to Mexico in 1970. Quality has a way of shutting mouths. If the sight of the finish line redoubles focus, the most interesting part of the Neymar story may lie ahead.