Leo Messi: Early Life and Career

In what city did Lionel Messi grow up?

What deficiency was Messi diagnosed with at age nine?

How did Messi dedicate his goals to his grandmother?

How many goals did Messi score during his time at Newell's?

What item was Messi's first contract with Barcelona signed on?

At what age did Messi debut for Barcelona's first team?

Who mentored Messi when he first joined Barcelona?

For how many years did Messi wear the number 10 jersey for Barcelona?

After leaving Barcelona, which team did Messi join?

What was Messi's ultimate dream in his football career

What was Messi's medical condition?

Who encouraged Messi's early football career?

How many goals did Messi score at Newell's?

How was Messi's first contract with Barcelona signed?

Who mentored Messi at Barcelona?

How long did Messi wear the number 10 jersey for Barcelona?

What are some of Messi's accomplishments at Barcelona?

What was Messi's ultimate dream?

Leo Messi grew up in Rosario, Argentina and loved playing football from a young age.
At age four, his grandmother recognized his talent and got him a spot on a local team after seeing him play.
He joined his hometown club and excelled, leading his team, "the Machine of '87," to win every tournament.
At age nine, doctors discovered Leo had a growth hormone deficiency.
He received daily injections to help him grow, first with his parents' help, then on his own.
His grandmother passed away shortly after he began treatment and he dedicated every goal to her by pointing to the sky.
During his six years at Newell's, he scored over 500 goals.
At 13, he and his father traveled to Spain for a trial with FC Barcelona.
His first contract with Barcelona was famously signed on a paper napkin.
Early times at Barcelona's Youth Academy were tough due to an injury.
At 16, he debuted for Barcelona's first team and was mentored by Ronaldinho.
He wore the number 10 jersey for 12 years, becoming a team icon and inspiration.
People considered him the greatest player in football history.
He thought of his family and his charity work when things got tough.
Leo left Barcelona and joined Paris, after winning 10 national competitions, 4 Champions Leagues, and 3 Club World Cups
His ultimate dream was to lead Argentina to victory at the World Cup, which he eventually accomplished.