Lionel Messi: Why Spain Never Stole My Heart

Messi's Early Decision: Argentina or Spain?

Football icon Lionel Messi, revered for his magic on the pitch, recently revealed the pivotal moment when he had to choose between representing Spain or his beloved Argentina. Born in the football-crazy nation of Argentina, Messi's early years in Spain's La Masia academy made him eligible for La Roja, Spain's national team.

During a candid chat on the 'Miro de Atrás' podcast with former Argentina teammate Nahuel Guzmán, Messi shared that the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) had shown a keen interest in bringing him on board. Despite spending his formative years in Spain, Messi's heart was always set on Argentina. "Even though I’m Argentinian, I had moved to Barcelona very young," Messi recounted, "But no, well... My heart was always with Argentina."

"At that time, even though I’m Argentinian, I had moved to Barcelona very young and had done most of my training in their youth system, so the possibility was there. It could have happened. But no, well... I always... My heart was always with Argentina."

A Legacy Carved with La Albiceleste

Messi's commitment to Argentina bore fruit in the form of numerous accolades. His journey from the youth squad, clinching the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup and an Olympic gold in 2008, to leading the senior national team to glory is a testament to his dedication. After years of near misses, Messi steered Argentina to win the 2021 Copa América, followed by the celebrated 2022 FIFA World Cup victory in Qatar.

With Argentina's recent triumph in the 2024 Copa América, Messi's legacy as the nation's all-time leader in goals and appearances is firmly cemented. His story is a testament that sometimes, following your heart can lead to the greatest of victories.