Lionel Messi Biography

Makes his competitive first-team debut as a substitute against Espanyol.

Scores his first competitive Barcelona goal with a lifted finish against Albacete.

Scores his first World Cup goal as Argentina defeat Serbia and Montenegro 6-0.

Scores three times against Real Madrid as Barcelona draw 3-3 at Camp Nou.

Scores a celebrated solo goal against Getafe after dribbling past several defenders.

Scores a deft chipped goal as Argentina defeat Mexico 3-0 in the Copa America semi-final.

Wins his first Ballon d'Or after helping Barcelona complete a historic treble.

Scores twice as Barcelona defeat Real Madrid 6-2 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Heads Barcelona's second goal to secure victory over Manchester United.

Scores in extra time as Barcelona defeat Estudiantes to complete an unprecedented six-trophy year.

Scores twice against Real Madrid, including a celebrated solo goal, in the semi-final first leg.

Restores Barcelona's lead with a low strike from outside the penalty area.

Scores twice as Barcelona defeat Santos 4-0 to win the FIFA Club World Cup.

Finishes the calendar year with a record ninety-one goals for club and country.

Scores Argentina's second goal in the 2-1 World Cup group-stage victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Scores in stoppage time to give Argentina a 1-0 World Cup victory over Iran.

Scores twice as Argentina defeat Nigeria 3-2 and complete a perfect World Cup group stage.

Wins the World Cup Golden Ball after Argentina finish as runners-up to Germany.

Scores his four-hundredth competitive Barcelona goal during a league victory over Valencia.

Scores twice in three minutes as Barcelona take control of their semi-final against Bayern.

Scores two direct free kicks as Barcelona defeat Sevilla 5-4 after extra time.

Scores his five-hundredth competitive Barcelona goal with a stoppage-time Clasico winner.

Scores his six-hundredth Barcelona goal with a free kick against Liverpool.

Wins a sixth Ballon d'Or while serving as Barcelona captain.

Scores his 644th Barcelona goal to surpass Pele's recognised goals total for a single club.

Finishes the Copa America with four goals, sharing the tournament scoring lead as Argentina become champions.

Barcelona announce that Messi will not continue at the club after contract negotiations cannot be completed.

Scores Argentina's opening goal in a crucial 2-0 World Cup group-stage victory over Mexico.

Wins the Golden Ball after leading Argentina to the World Cup title.