Lionel Messi is a name that resonates with football fans around the world.
The Argentine professional footballer is widely regarded as one of the best players in history. He has won numerous awards, including seven Ballon d’Or titles, which is the most by any player.
But behind the success of Lionel Messi lies an interesting family history, career journey, and personal life that many fans may not know about.
In this article, we will delve into the Lionel Messi family tree, his career highlights, relationships, and siblings, among other details.
Lionel Messi’s success on the football field is unparalleled, but his personal life is just as fascinating.
From his humble beginnings in Rosario, Argentina, to his rise as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
Lionel Messi (Image: Source)
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Lionel Messi: Childhood And Family Tree
Lionel Messi, a name synonymous with excellence in the world of football, was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, a city in the Santa Fe province of Argentina.[1]celebfamily
Growing up in a football-loving family, Messi was introduced to the sport at a very young age.
He spent most of his childhood playing football with his two elder brothers, Rodrigo and Matias. Lionel’s father, Jorge Messi, who managed a steel factory, was also an avid football fan and coached his son in his early years.
Early Struggle
At the age of 11, Messi was diagnosed with hormone deficiency, a condition that threatened his footballing career.
However, luck was on his side when Carles Rexach, the director of FC Barcelona at the time, saw the potential in the young Messi and agreed to take him on board. There was, however, one condition: Messi’s family would have to relocate to Barcelona, Spain.
Fortunately, Messi’s family was up for the move, and this decision proved to be the turning point in his career.
The Family Heritage
Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has Italian and Spanish heritage, while his mother, Celia Cuccitini, is of Italian descent.
Messi is the third child in a family of four children. His brothers, Rodrigo and Matias, also shared his passion for football, while his sister, Maria, pursued a different career path.
Mother | Celia María Cuccittini |
Father | Jorge Messi |
Siblings | Matias Messi, Rodrigo Messi, Maria Sol Messi |
Kids | Thiago Messi, Ciro Messi Roccuzzo, Mateo Messi |
Wife | Antonela Roccuzzo |
Lionel Messi: Grandmother
Lionel Messi, the renowned football superstar, has always been known for his extraordinary talent and passion for the game.[2]operanews
However, what many people may not know is that the person who first recognized Messi’s potential was none other than his grandmother, Celia Olivera Cuccittini.
At just four years old, Messi’s grandmother saw something special in him. She noticed the natural talent and temperament of a future football star in his body language and movements.
She believed that her grandson had what it takes to become a great football player and wanted to see him succeed.
Lionel Messi (Image: Source)
Support for Messi’s Football Career
To support Messi’s passion for football, his grandmother took him to his first football training course at the Grandoli local football club.
She was the only person who believed in him and encouraged him to pursue his dream of becoming a professional football player.
Not only did she take Messi to training sessions, but she also persuaded his parents to buy him his first pair of football boots. She even asked the local club’s coach to include him in the team.
Messi’s grandmother was his biggest fan and supporter, and she did everything in her power to ensure that he had the opportunity to play the game he loved.
A Tragic Loss
Unfortunately, Messi’s grandmother passed away when he was only ten years old.
However, her impact on his life and career cannot be overstated. Messi still remembers the unconditional love and support she gave him, and whenever he scores a goal, he raises his hand to the sky in celebration of her memory.
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Lionel Messi’s Wife: Antonela Roccuzzo
If you’re a fan of Lionel Messi, you might be curious about the woman who stole his heart.[3]sportskeeda
Messi’s wife is none other than Antonela Roccuzzo, a fellow Argentinian who grew up in Rosario, just like Messi.
Childhood Sweethearts
Antonela Roccuzzo met Lionel Messi when they were both just five years old.
Messi was friends with Antonela’s cousin Lucas Scaglia, and they quickly became close. They grew up together in Rosario, and their friendship eventually turned into a romance.
Lionel Messi With Wife (Image: Source)
Education and Career
After finishing high school, Antonela Roccuzzo attended the University of Rosario. She originally planned to become a dentist, but she ended up switching her major to social communication.
However, Roccuzzo’s interests aren’t limited to academics. She’s also a successful model who has endorsed various brands and products over the years. Her natural beauty and easy grace have made her a favorite of photographers and fans alike.
In addition to modeling, Antonela Roccuzzo is also a shrewd businesswoman.
She’s the co-owner of a shoe store in Barcelona called “Sarkany Roccuzzo” in partnership with Ricky Sarkany and her friend Sofia Balbi, who is Luis Suarez’s wife. The store specializes in high-end footwear and has become a popular destination for shoe lovers in the city.
Lionel Messi With His Wife (Image: Source)
Lionel Messi Children: Meet the Messi-Roccuzzo Boys
Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentinian soccer player, has captured the hearts of millions with his incredible skill and talent on the field. But beyond his success in soccer, Messi is also a dedicated family man.
He has been married to Antonela Roccuzzo for three years and together for over a decade. The couple has three beautiful sons who are often seen on their parents’ social media accounts.
The oldest of the Messi-Roccuzzo brothers is Thiago. He was born on November 2, 2012, in Barcelona, Spain.
Thiago is known for his love of soccer and often accompanies his father to games and practices. He even has his own mini soccer field at home, where he can practice his skills with his dad.
Mateo, the second of the Messi-Roccuzzo brothers, was born on September 11, 2015, in Barcelona, Spain. He is known for his outgoing and playful personality. Mateo is often seen making funny faces and joking around with his dad and brothers.
The youngest of the Messi-Roccuzzo brothers is Ciro, who was born on March 10, 2018, in Barcelona, Spain. Despite being the youngest, Ciro has already captured the hearts of many with his adorable smile and playful demeanor.
Lionel Messi With Family (Image: Source)
Lionel Messi’s Net Worth 2023 Explored
Lionel Messi, the legendary footballer, is not only known for his exceptional skills on the field but also for his impressive net worth.
In 2023, Messi’s net worth is estimated to be more than $620 million, making him the wealthiest footballer in the world.
Messi grabbed himself a goal and assist on Saturday night as PSG beat Nice 2-0 in Ligue 1. It was his assist for their second goal that brought up the 1,000th goal involvement of his club career. Ironically, he set up long-time rival Sergio Ramos for PSG. pic.twitter.com/0I6G6pS1J9
— Leo Messi (@imessi) April 9, 2023
Messi’s Earnings and Wealth
Forbes, the renowned magazine, ranks Messi as the highest-paid sportsperson.
In 2023, his earnings were a staggering $130 million, with $75 million coming from sports and $55 million from other sources. His net worth is a result of various income streams, including salaries, bonuses, sponsorships, and endorsements.
Lionel Messi With Wife (Image: Source)
Messi’s Move to Paris St German
In 2021, Messi left Barcelona, the club where he spent most of his career, and joined Paris St German. Despite a $22 million pay cut, his earnings have continued to rise.
Messi’s net worth received a significant boost from advertisement and other sources of income, including brand endorsements.
Messi’s Brand Endorsements
Messi’s influence and popularity extend far beyond the football field, making him a valuable brand ambassador for numerous companies. Messi has inked endorsement deals with many big brands, including Adidas, Pepsi, and Lay’s.
His endorsements add a considerable sum to his net worth, making him one of the most sought-after sports personalities for brand campaigns.
FAQs
Who is Lionel Messi?
Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer widely regarded as one of the best players in history. He has won numerous awards, including seven Ballon d’Or titles, which is the most by any player.
What is Lionel Messi’s family background?
Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has Italian and Spanish heritage, while his mother, Celia Cuccitini, is of Italian descent. Messi is the third child in a family of four children. His brothers, Rodrigo and Matias, also shared his passion for football, while his sister, Maria, pursued a different career path.
What was Lionel Messi’s early life like?
Messi grew up in Rosario, a city in the Santa Fe province of Argentina, in a football-loving family. He spent most of his childhood playing football with his two elder brothers, Rodrigo and Matias. Lionel’s father, Jorge Messi, who managed a steel factory, was also an avid football fan and coached his son in his early years.
What role did Lionel Messi’s grandmother play in his life?
Lionel Messi’s grandmother, Celia Olivera Cuccittini, was the person who first recognized Messi’s potential. At just four years old, Messi’s grandmother saw something special in him. She believed that her grandson had what it takes to become a great football player and wanted to see him succeed.
Who is Lionel Messi’s wife?
Lionel Messi’s wife is Antonela Roccuzzo, a fellow Argentinian who grew up in Rosario, just like Messi. They met when they were both just five years old and grew up together in Rosario. Antonela Roccuzzo attended the University of Rosario and originally planned to become a dentist, but she ended up switching her major to social communication. She’s also a successful model.
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References
↑1 | celebfamily |
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↑2 | operanews |
↑3 | sportskeeda |