Unveiling Messi's Origin Story: A Napkin's Journey to Football Immortality

Unveiling Messi's Origin Story: A Napkin's Journey to Football Immortality

The auction of a napkin with Lionel Messi's Barcelona signing commitment made waves, selling for £762,400. Messi's legacy remains unparalleled in football history.

Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros

Juan Brignardello Vela

Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.

Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, y Vargas Llosa, premio Nobel Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, en celebración de Alianza Lima Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro Eléctrica Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro
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The football world was abuzz as a significant piece of history was auctioned off recently - a napkin on which Barcelona committed to signing a 13-year-old Lionel Messi back in December 2000. The bidding for this unique item started at £300,000 and eventually went on to sell for an astonishing £762,400. The 'standard Spanish waxy napkin', measuring 16.5 x 16.5cm, was laminated and framed, preserving the momentous signatures in blue ink of then Barcelona director Carles Rexach, transfer adviser Josep Minguella, and agent Horacio Gaggioli, who was instrumental in bringing the Argentine prodigy to the club. The napkin, presented for auction by Gaggioli through London-based Bonhams, immortalizes the pivotal agreement that paved the way for Messi to join Barcelona, where he would go on to achieve legendary status. A month after the deal was struck, Messi donned the Barcelona jersey for the first time, embarking on a remarkable career that saw him become the club's all-time leading goal scorer with an astounding 672 goals in 778 appearances. During his illustrious tenure at Barcelona, Messi amassed an impressive trophy haul, including 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League triumphs. His departure for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 marked the end of an era at Camp Nou, and the 36-year-old star is now showcasing his talents at Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. The backstory behind the napkin contract adds an intriguing layer to Messi's journey to stardom. It was signed at a lunch meeting arranged by Rexach, who sought to reassure Messi's family, particularly his father Jorge, after initial concerns about Barcelona's response following the young talent's trial. The translated text on the napkin encapsulates the momentous decision made by Barcelona to secure Messi's services, emphasizing the commitment made by the club's leadership. As football enthusiasts and collectors alike marvel at the historic artifact that encapsulates the beginning of Messi's remarkable career, it serves as a poignant reminder of the impact one player can have on the sporting world. Lionel Messi's legacy transcends mere statistics - it is a testament to talent, dedication, and the enduring allure of the beautiful game.

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