Lionel Messi – Career, Family and Current Status 2025

Lionel Messi, the Argentine forward born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history. As of July 2026, he plays for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer, a move that fundamentally altered the landscape of North American soccer. His career, marked by a record eight Ballon d’Or awards and a historic FIFA World Cup win in 2022, continues to captivate global audiences.

Messi’s journey from a boy with a growth hormone deficiency in Rosario to the pinnacle of world football is a story of both talent and perseverance. His 17 seasons at FC Barcelona established him as the club’s all-time leading scorer and the top marksman in La Liga history. Now in his late 30s, he demonstrates that elite performance is still within reach, evidenced by his exceptional form in the 2026 MLS season.

What is Lionel Messi doing now? Current Club and Status (2025)

Key Insights

• Messi is one of only two players (along with Cristiano Ronaldo) to have scored 800 or more career goals.
• His transfer to Inter Miami in July 2023 significantly boosted the global viewership and profile of Major League Soccer.
• He holds the all-time record for most Ballon d’Or awards, with eight.
• Messi helped Inter Miami win the MLS Cup in 2025 and the Leagues Cup in 2023.
• As of July 2026, he has recorded 12 goals and 7–8 assists in just 14 MLS matches, earning an average FotMob rating of 8.47.
• Despite being 39 years old, his physical condition and scoring efficiency remain at an elite level.

Snapshot Facts

When did Messi sign with Inter Miami?

Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023 as a free transfer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired. He chose the MLS club over a potential return to Barcelona and a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, citing the opportunity to play in a competitive league while living in the United States. Since his arrival, he has worn the number 10 jersey.

How many goals has Lionel Messi scored? Career Stats & Records

Messi’s all-time goal tally

According to Transfermarkt, Messi has scored 743 goals in 911 official matches across all competitions. In La Liga alone, he netted 474 goals in 520 appearances, making him the competition’s all-time leading scorer. He also recorded 129 goals in 163 UEFA Champions League matches and 125 goals for the Argentina national team in 204 caps.

Did Messi win the World Cup?

Yes, Messi captained Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, a triumph that is often cited as sealing his status as the greatest of all time. He scored seven goals throughout the tournament, including two in the final against France. He also won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024 with Argentina.

Who are Lionel Messi’s wife and children? His Family Life

Antonela Roccuzzo: Their relationship timeline

Messi is married to Antonela Roccuzzo, whom he met as a child in Rosario. The couple married in 2016 in a widely publicized ceremony. Antonela, a model and businesswoman, has been a constant presence in his personal life, often attending matches and supporting his charitable work through the Leo Messi Foundation.

Messi’s sons: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro

Messi and Roccuzzo have three sons: Thiago, born in 2012; Mateo, born in 2015; and Ciro, born in 2021. The family resides in Miami, Florida, where the children have been seen attending Inter Miami games and adapting to life in the United States.

What is Lionel Messi’s net worth and salary in 2025?

Breakdown of earnings

As of 2024–2025, Messi’s net worth is estimated between $600 million and $650 million, according to public knowledge from financial reports and Forbes estimates. This includes his club salary from Inter Miami, a long-term endorsement deal with Adidas, and business ventures such as his own brand, Messi Brand, and the SHOTS energy drink.

While exact salary figures for the 2025 season are not fully public, his contract with Inter Miami reportedly includes performance bonuses and revenue-sharing agreements that make him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. Endorsements with Pepsi, Budweiser, and other global brands supplement his income significantly.

How does Messi compare to Ronaldo? The Enduring Debate

Statistical comparison

The comparison between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo is a central topic in football discourse. While Messi has more Ballon d’Or awards (8 vs. 5 for Ronaldo) and a World Cup victory, Ronaldo leads in Champions League goals and total goals for a national team. Both have scored over 800 career goals, a mark only the two have achieved in modern football.

Contrasting playing styles

Messi’s game is defined by low center of gravity, close ball control, and playmaking vision. Ronaldo relies on athleticism, power, and aerial ability. The debate over who is “better” often comes down to personal preference for style, though Messi’s World Cup win in 2022 has shifted public perception strongly in his favor.

Where was Lionel Messi born? Early Life and Beginning of His Career

Rosario, Argentina

Messi was born in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina. At age 13, he moved to Barcelona to join FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, while receiving treatment for growth hormone deficiency. This decision, supported by his family, set the stage for his remarkable rise. He made his senior debut for Barcelona at 17 in 2004, quickly becoming a regular starter.

Physical attributes

Messi stands 1.70 meters (5 feet 7 inches) tall and weighs approximately 67 kilograms (148 pounds). His relatively short stature, combined with exceptional balance and agility, has been a key factor in his ability to evade defenders and maintain control under pressure.

A Timeline of Lionel Messi’s Career

1. 2000: Moves to Barcelona at age 13 to join La Masia.
2. 2004: Senior debut for FC Barcelona at age 17.
3. 2009: Wins first Ballon d’Or; Barcelona wins a historic treble.
4. 2012: Records 91 goals in a single calendar year, a world record.
5. 2021: Leaves Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain due to club financial issues.
6. 2022: Wins the FIFA World Cup with Argentina.
7. 2023: Joins Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer as a free agent.
8. 2025: Continues to play for Inter Miami and the Argentina national team.

What is certain and what remains uncertain about Messi?

Why is Messi considered one of the greatest?

Messi’s dribbling style, playmaking vision, and goal-scoring consistency distinguish him from his peers. His ability to create scoring opportunities from nearly any position on the field, combined with his low center of gravity and close control, made him a unique force at Barcelona. His move to MLS has expanded his global influence, bringing elite football to a new audience in North America. The 2022 World Cup victory, achieved at age 35, solidified his legacy as a leader who could deliver on the biggest stage for his country.

Sources and Quotes

This article draws from multiple authoritative sources for accuracy.

• Wikipedia: Lionel Messi for historical facts and career timeline.
• Transfermarkt: Stats & Value for current season and career stats.
• ESPN Player Stats for current performance data.
• FIFA Profile: Lionel Messi for official records.
• Official Inter Miami Player Profile for club-specific bio details.
• Olympics.com for career achievements and biography.

Where can I find more football biographies?

Lionel Messi’s story is one of many remarkable careers in football. For perspective on other greats, readers interested in players who achieved success abroad may appreciate the story of Steve McManaman – The Most Decorated English Footballer Abroad. For a look at a manager who successfully transitioned from a similar era to the sidelines, Mikel Arteta – Biography, Playing Career and Arsenal Manager offers a relevant comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions