Background on Lionel Messi and His Career Milestones
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, is celebrating his 38th birthday this week. In a unique twist of fate, the Argentine star will face his former club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), in the octagonal match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. This encounter will take place during his birthday week, marking a first in Messi’s extensive career.
Messi’s Professional Journey
Since making his professional debut in October 2004, Messi has represented only three teams: Barcelona (until 2021), PSG (2021-2023), and Inter de Miami (since 2023). He has never faced Barcelona on the pitch while representing PSG or Inter de Miami. However, destiny has brought him to an unprecedented match-up this week, coinciding with his 38th birthday celebration.
Inter de Miami’s Road to the Octagonal Stage
Inter de Miami surprised many by securing the second spot in Group A, following a victory over Porto (2-1) and two draws against Al Ahly of Egypt (0-0) and Palmeiras of Brazil (2-2). Messi scored the winning goal against Porto.
PSG’s Path to the Octagonal Match
PSG finished atop Group B with two wins against Atlético de Madrid and Seattle Sounders, and a loss to Botafogo. This ensured their place against Inter de Miami, the Group A runner-up, in the knockout stage.
The PSG-Messi Connection
Achraf Hakimi, PSG defender, expressed his anticipation for facing Messi: “It would be great to see Messi again. I enjoyed my time with him, but on the field, there are no friends.”
Inter de Miami faces a daunting task, as PSG recently won the UEFA Champions League for the first time and retains its competitive spirit with players like Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Moreover, PSG’s head coach, Luis Enrique, is well-acquainted with Messi and his former Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, having led them to the 2015 Champions League title.
Messi’s Accomplishments and PSG Tenure
During his 19 years in Europe, Messi amassed numerous accolades, including four Champions League titles and three Club World Cup wins, all with Barcelona. His time at PSG, while surrounded by stars like Neymar, Sergio Ramos, and Kylian Mbappé, yielded only two French League titles and a Coupe de France.
Messi’s Future with Inter de Miami
At 38, Messi’s career remains strong, with no retirement plans in sight. He continues to be competitive for Inter de Miami, having already secured two titles: the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the MLS Supporters’ Shield in 2024.
Upcoming Match Details
The Inter de Miami vs. PSG match is scheduled for Sunday, June 29, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Inter de Miami aims to secure a spot in the Club World Cup quarterfinals, facing PSG as the clear favorite.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Lionel Messi? An Argentine professional footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players in history.
- What is the significance of Messi facing PSG? This marks the first time in Messi’s career that he will face a former club in a professional match.
- How did Inter de Miami qualify for the octagonal stage? Inter de Miami secured second place in Group A after a series of matches, including a victory over Porto.
- What are Messi’s plans for the future? At 38, Messi has no retirement plans and continues to compete with Inter de Miami.
- When and where is the Inter de Miami vs. PSG match? The match takes place on June 29 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
