Lionel Messi remains one of the biggest names in world football as he leads Argentina into the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Widely considered among the greatest players in the sport’s history, Messi has built a legendary career filled with club and international success.
From his humble beginnings in Rosario to lifting the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, Messi’s journey has inspired millions around the globe. Here’s everything to know about the Argentina captain, including his place of birth, age, height, club career, and major achievements.
Where was Lionel Messi born?
Lionel Andrés Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina. Rosario is one of Argentina’s largest cities and has produced several elite footballers over the years.
Messi began playing football as a young child before joining local club Newell’s Old Boys, where his remarkable talent quickly became evident.
How old is Lionel Messi?
As of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi is 39 years old.
Despite nearing four decades of age, Messi continues to perform at the highest level, serving as Argentina’s captain while competing in what is expected to be his final FIFA World Cup.
Lionel Messi profile
- Full name: Lionel Andrés Messi
- Date of birth: June 24, 1987
- Age: 39
- Place of birth: Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Nationality: Argentine
- Height: 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in)
- Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder
- Preferred foot: Left
- Current club: Inter Miami CF
- National team: Argentina
- Shirt number: 10
Lionel Messi’s early career
Messi’s career nearly took a different path after he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency as a child. At just 13 years old, he moved to Spain after Barcelona offered to pay for his medical treatment while enrolling him in the club’s famed La Masia academy.
The move proved to be one of the most significant decisions in football history.
Lionel Messi’s club career
Messi spent over two decades with Barcelona, becoming the club’s greatest-ever player. During his time in Spain, he won virtually every major trophy available.
His club honors include:
- 10 La Liga titles
- 4 UEFA Champions League titles
- 7 Copa del Rey titles
- Numerous domestic and international individual awards
Following his departure from Barcelona in 2021, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain before signing with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami in 2023, helping transform the league’s global profile.
Lionel Messi with Argentina
Messi made his senior debut for Argentina in 2005 and has since become both the nation’s all-time leading scorer and its most-capped player.
His international achievements include:
- FIFA World Cup champion (2022)
- Copa América champion (2021)
- Copa América champion (2024)
- Finalissima champion (2022)
- Olympic gold medalist (2008)
- FIFA U-20 World Cup champion (2005)
Winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar completed one of football’s most decorated careers and ended Argentina’s 36-year wait for the sport’s biggest prize.
Lionel Messi’s playing style
Messi has long been admired for his extraordinary technical ability and football intelligence.
His greatest strengths include:
- Elite dribbling
- Exceptional vision and passing
- Clinical finishing
- Free-kick accuracy
- Creativity in attack
- Ball control under pressure
Although naturally left-footed, Messi has consistently demonstrated the ability to score and create goals from nearly every attacking position.
Lionel Messi’s biggest achievements
Throughout his career, Messi has established records that may stand for generations.
Among his most notable accomplishments are:
- Record eight Ballon d’Or awards
- Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer
- Argentina’s all-time leading scorer
- Argentina’s all-time appearance leader
- FIFA World Cup winner
- Multiple UEFA Champions League titles
- Multiple league championships across Europe
Lionel Messi’s legacy
Few athletes have influenced their sport like Lionel Messi. His consistency, longevity, humility, and unmatched ability have earned him recognition as one of the greatest footballers in history.
As Argentina pursues another World Cup title in 2026, Messi continues to inspire teammates and fans alike while adding new chapters to an already legendary career.
Whether this tournament marks his final appearance on football’s biggest stage or not, Lionel Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest players ever is firmly secure.