Lionel Messi’s Career Timeline: From Debut to Present

May 13, 2025

Few athletes in history have left as significant a mark on their sport as Lionel Messi. Known for his mesmerizing dribbles, pinpoint passes, and an unmatched ability to score goals, Messi has enjoyed a career that spans over two decades. From his humble beginnings in Rosario, Argentina, to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time, the Messi career timeline is a testament to talent, hard work, and perseverance.

This article explores Lionel Messi’s career from his early days to his most recent feats, highlighting key moments and achievements that define his legendary status.

Early Life and Youth Career

1987-2000: The Beginnings in Rosario

Lionel Andrés Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina. From a young age, his prodigious football skills were apparent. He joined the local club Newell’s Old Boys at the age of six and quickly rose through the ranks, scoring almost 500 goals in just six years.

However, his journey was not without obstacles. At age 10, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. Unable to afford the expensive treatment, his family sought help from clubs abroad.

FC Barcelona Era: A Legacy Begins

2000-2003: Move to Barcelona and La Masia

At just 13 years old, Messi moved to Spain to join FC Barcelona’s La Masia youth academy, with the club agreeing to cover his medical expenses. It was the beginning of a legendary association.

2004: First-Team Debut

Messi made his official debut for Barcelona’s senior team on October 16, 2004, against Espanyol, becoming the third-youngest player to ever play for the club.

2005: First Goal and Breakthrough

In May 2005, Messi scored his first senior goal for Barcelona against Albacete. It was a chip over the goalkeeper that symbolized the start of something great.

That same year, he won the FIFA World Youth Championship with Argentina and was named the tournament’s best player.

The Rise to Stardom

2006-2009: Becoming a Star

By 2006, Messi had established himself in the first team. Despite injuries, he played a key role in Barcelona’s success. In 2007, he scored a maradona-esque goal against Getafe, dribbling past six players.

In the 2008-09 season, under Pep Guardiola, Messi played as a “false nine” and led Barcelona to a historic treble—winning La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League. He scored in the Champions League final against Manchester United.

Dominating World Football

2009-2012: The Golden Years

Messi won his first Ballon d’Or in 2009, the first of four consecutive wins through 2012. These years were characterized by his unmatched goal-scoring ability:

2011-12 season: Messi scored an astonishing 73 goals in all competitions, setting a record for most goals in a European club season.
In 2012, he scored 91 goals in a calendar year, breaking Gerd Müller’s long-standing record.

Continued Success and Leadership

2013-2017: Challenges and Comebacks

Though injuries and tactical shifts presented challenges, Messi continued to shine. With Neymar and Luis Suárez, he formed the deadly “MSN” trio, leading Barcelona to another treble in 2014-15, including a Champions League victory.

During this period, he also:

Won more La Liga and Copa del Rey titles
Scored his 500th career goal
Became Barcelona’s all-time top scorer

Argentina and International Glory

2005-2021: From Frustration to Triumph

Messi’s international career saw many near-misses:

Runner-up in the 2014 World Cup
Lost three Copa América finals (2007, 2015, 2016)

Critics questioned his international legacy. But that changed in 2021, when Messi led Argentina to Copa América victory, defeating Brazil in the final. It was his first major international trophy, ending years of heartbreak and silence.

A New Chapter: Paris Saint-Germain

2021-2023: Departure from Barcelona

Due to financial constraints, Barcelona couldn’t renew Messi’s contract. On August 10, 2021, Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). His departure marked the end of a 21-year relationship with Barcelona.

At PSG:

He helped PSG win Ligue 1 titles
Formed a formidable attack with Neymar and Kylian Mbappé
Provided numerous assists and adapted to a new system

The Pinnacle: FIFA World Cup 2022

Qatar 2022: Messi’s Crowning Glory

The defining moment in the Messi career timeline came at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Leading Argentina, Messi delivered unforgettable performances:

Scored 7 goals and provided 3 assists
Man of the Match in 5 games, including the final
Lifted the World Cup trophy after a dramatic penalty shootout win over France

It sealed his status as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, player of all time.

Inter Miami and the MLS Era

2023-Present: New Horizons in the United States

In July 2023, Messi signed with Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer (MLS). His impact was immediate:

Won the Leagues Cup in his debut tournament
Boosted MLS viewership and popularity globally
Continued to produce goals, assists, and moments of brilliance

Messi’s move to the U.S. signified not a wind-down, but a new chapter of influence and inspiration.

Honors and Achievements Summary

Over his career, Messi has won:

8 Ballon d’Or titles (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023)
4 UEFA Champions League titles
10 La Liga titles
3 Copa América Finals (1 win)
1 FIFA World Cup (2022)
Over 800 career goals

Messi Career Timeline – Key Milestones

Year	Event
2000	Joined Barcelona’s youth academy
2004	Senior debut for Barcelona
2005	First professional goal
2009	First Ballon d’Or & historic treble
2012	Record 91 goals in a calendar year
2015	Second treble with Barcelona
2021	Wins Copa América
2022	Wins FIFA World Cup
2023	Joins Inter Miami CF

Conclusion

The Messi career timeline is more than a series of football milestones—it’s a story of resilience, excellence, and evolution. From a young boy in Argentina facing medical challenges to a global icon reshaping football history, Lionel Messi continues to inspire millions around the world.

Whether dazzling fans in Europe, conquering the World Cup, or taking soccer to new heights in the U.S., Messi’s legacy is firmly etched in the annals of sports. And while he may be in the twilight of his playing days, his influence on the beautiful game will endure for generations.

FAQs

Q: How many goals has Messi scored in his career?
A: As of 2025, Messi has scored over 800 career goals for club and country.

Q: What year did Messi win the World Cup?
A: Lionel Messi won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022.

Q: Why did Messi leave Barcelona?
A: Messi left Barcelona in 2021 due to the club’s financial problems, which prevented them from renewing his contract under La Liga regulations.