Barcelona's legend Lionel Messi made his competitive debut at the age of 16 years, four months, and 23 days old in a friendly against FC Porto. It didn't take him long to make an impression.
Since then, Messi has gone on to pick up seven-Ballon d'Ors, multiple La Liga and Champions League titles and just last year, inspired his country the World Cup glory.
Many football fans are adamant that that Argentina legend will go down in history as the greatest of all time.
Advert
But once upon a time, a number of so called 'fans' doubted his genius.
A number of posts on a Manchester United forum from 2005 have been discovered, highlighting how supporters rated Barcelona's 'next' superstar and well, it now looks a tad silly.
From posts like: "He would last six minutes in the Premiership. Likes too much time with the ball and a bit of a fairy," to "His finishing is way off the mark. He takes too many shots from outside the box and dribbles a lot."
Advert
This is a thread that hasn't aged well.
Despite the number of poor predictions, a number of positive posts were written, including this prediction from 14 years ago.
"I can honestly say that having seen the kid play about 20 that he is the best young player I have seen..."
Advert
In total, Messi has netted 799 goals in what has been a stunning career. 672 for Barcelona, 29 for his current side Paris Saint Germain and 98 for his country Argentina.
However, despite his strong performances this season, his future with PSG remains uncertain as his contract is due to expire at the end of the 22/23 campaign.
Messi has been linked with a move to the Middle East with Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal reportedly ready to offer the forward a lucrative contract.
Advert
Is Messi the GOAT? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Lionel Messi, Football, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Argentina
Jack Kenmare