I'm an expert in sports history, particularly in the realm of football. I have a deep understanding of the sport and its most illustrious figures, including Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, first began his journey in the sport at a very young age. His initial steps in football can be traced back to his early childhood, where he showed a natural affinity for the game. Born in Rosario, Argentina, Messi's talent was evident from the start, and his passion for football was ignited by the influence of his family, especially his father, who was a football coach.

Red is often used to highlight important information, and in this context, it's crucial to emphasize that Messi's first formal steps in football took place at Newell's Old Boys. He joined the Argentinian club's youth system in 1995, which was a significant milestone in his career. At Newell's Old Boys, Messi honed his skills and developed the technical abilities that would later become the hallmark of his style of play.

Playing for Newell's Old Boys until the year 2000, Messi's time at the club was marked by his exceptional performances and rapid development. His agility, speed, and an uncanny ability to navigate through defenses were already apparent during his time at the club. However, it was his move to Europe that would catapult him to global stardom.

At the age of 13, Messi made a life-changing decision to cross the Atlantic and join FC Barcelona. This move was not only a testament to his talent but also to his determination and the belief that he could make it to the top echelons of professional football. Upon his arrival in Spain, Messi joined the ranks of Barcelona's renowned youth academy, La Masia, specifically the Under-14 team.

At La Masia, Messi continued to flourish. His growth as a player was exponential, and he quickly progressed through the ranks, moving up to the higher age groups and eventually making his debut for the senior team at the age of 17. His journey at Barcelona was nothing short of remarkable, with numerous accolades and records to his name, including multiple Ballon d'Or awards and numerous domestic and international titles.

In conclusion, Messi's first steps in football were taken at Newell's Old Boys in Argentina, where he played from 1995 to 2000. His move to Barcelona at the age of 13 was a pivotal moment in his career, setting him on a path that would see him become one of the most celebrated footballers in history.

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Leo Messi's footballing career started in 1995 at Newell's Old Boys, where he played until the year 2000. At the age of 13, Lionel Messi crossed the Atlantic to try his luck in Barcelona, and joined the Under 14s.read more >>