Lionel Messi is inarguably one of the best footballers in the history of the sport. With countless accolades, Lionel Messi has time and again proven his prowess by rescuing his team from the crisis. The Argentina footballer who plays for the Spanish football club, Barcelona has won 34 trophies till date. This includes ten La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League titles and six Copas del Rey. Leo Messi is regarded as one of the best footballers of all time. As Messi turns 32, we bring you some cool facts about the footballer who is considered the G.O.A.T (Greatest of all times) going by his colossal stats and records. Lionel Messi Hits The Gym After Loss to Colombia in Copa America 2019 Opener.

  • At the age of 11, the footballer was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency. His treatment cost around $900 a month which was unaffordable to his parents.

  • Messi first got his football contract at the age of 13 as he impressed Barcelona boss Carles Rexach. Barcelona then paid the expenses for his treatment.

  • His first contract was drafted on a paper napkin.

  • Messi is the shortest forward in the world. He is 5’6 feet, but that does not stop him from being the best footballer.

  • In 2008, he became the youngest player to get nominated for FIFA. Though he didn’t win the award.

  • The Argentine star is the founder of the Leo Messi Foundation, which aims to improve healthcare and education for children.

  • Messi’ jersey number 10 was inherited from the football great Ronaldinho in 2008.

  • He was offered a place in the national team by Spain, which he did not accept.

  • The footballer has a tattoo of his son’s handprints on his left calf.

  • Lionel Messi does not like to watch highlights of himself.

Lionel Messi is one of the biggest ambassadors of the sport. We wish him all the success and a very Happy Birthday from Team LatestLY.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 24, 2019 10:59 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).