B2171 words1:09Story American AccentPublished Jul 22, 2026 · Updated Jul 30, 2026

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Lionel Messi was born in the city of Rosario, Argentina, in 1987.

He loved football more than anything else in the world as a child.

However, at age ten, doctors discovered that he had a growth hormone problem.

His family could not afford the expensive treatment, and local clubs refused to help.

Representatives from Barcelona saw the small boy play and could not believe their eyes.

A club director was so eager to sign him that he wrote the first agreement on a paper napkin.

At thirteen, Messi moved with his family across the ocean to Spain for a new life.

The Spanish club welcomed him warmly and paid for his expensive medicine.

Over the years, Messi has grown into the greatest player of his generation.

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He has won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards during his amazing career.

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In addition, he has scored more than 800 goals for club and country.

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In 2022, at his fifth World Cup, he finally lifted the trophy his country had waited thirty-six years for.

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Lionel Messi: The Boy Who Needed Medicine