As Lionel Messi embarks on his highly anticipated India Tour 2025, football fever has gripped the nation. From Kolkata to Hyderabad, Mumbai to New Delhi, fans are eager to witness the magic of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. In the midst of this Messi mania, what better way to delve deeper into the life and career of the Argentine superstar than through literature? Here are five must-read books to trace Lionel Messi's journey to superstardom:
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Messi by Luca Caioli: Arguably the most popular book on Messi, Luca Caioli's biography has undergone several editions, each offering a comprehensive look into the life of the football legend. Caioli, a seasoned journalist, captures Messi's story from his early days, featuring interviews with his first coach, family, and Messi himself. The book also provides the political and cultural context of Messi's upbringing, starting with Argentina in 1987.
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Messi: A Biography by Leonardo Faccio: This extensive biography chronicles Messi's personal journey, from his humble beginnings in Rosario, Argentina, to the grand stadiums of the world. Faccio, an Argentinian journalist, paints a compelling narrative by incorporating insights from those close to Messi, detailing his transformation from a prodigious talent to a global icon.
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Messi by Guillem Balague: Guillem Balague, a respected Spanish football journalist with unparalleled access to Messi's inner circle, offers an intimate portrayal of the star. The updated editions include details of Messi's transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain and his move to Inter Miami. Balague delves into Messi's origins in Rosario, his illustrious career at Barcelona, his time in Paris, and his World Cup triumph.
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Messigraphica: A Graphic Biography of the Genius of Lionel Messi by Sanjeev Shetty: For a visually engaging experience, "Messigraphica" offers a unique perspective on Messi's brilliance. Sanjeev Shetty, a sports journalist with nearly two decades of experience, utilizes data and visual storytelling to analyze Messi's tactics and skill development. This graphic biography provides detailed visual and statistical analyses of Messi's performance.
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Lionel Messi: Soccer Star by Derek Moon: This book is tailored for younger readers, providing an accessible introduction to Messi's life and career. Derek Moon uses colorful photographs, fun facts, and engaging narratives to highlight Messi's journey from Argentina to soccer stardom. Designed for readers in grades 4 through 7, this biography offers a clear overview of Messi's milestones and personal background.
These books collectively offer a comprehensive understanding of Lionel Messi, from his early life in Rosario to his record-breaking career. Born on June 24, 1987, Messi's talent was evident from a young age, joining Newell's Old Boys at just eight years old. At 13, he moved to Barcelona, Spain, where he joined FC Barcelona's youth academy and underwent treatment for a growth hormone deficiency.
Messi's impact on FC Barcelona was immense, winning numerous titles, including 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns. He became the youngest player to score for the team and holds the record for most goals in La Liga. In 2021, he joined Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami in 2023.
On the international stage, Messi captained Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His journey, marked by talent, tenacity, and triumph, continues to inspire millions worldwide. As fans in India eagerly await a glimpse of the legend, these books offer an enriching experience, delving into the heart and soul of Lionel Messi.
