On this day, 21 years ago, Leo Messi debuted for FC Barcelona. It was on 16 November 2003 that the Argentinian made his first appearance in a friendly against Porto.

Frank Rijkaard sent him on the 71st minute as a replacement for Fernando Navarro. There was already considerable expectation regarding the youngster from La Masia, although it is unlikely that anyone predicted at that time just what a superstar he would turn out to be. The GOAT.

21 years on and he has won a record number of Ballon d'Ors, a quite staggering eight, and led Barça through its most glorious period ever, and also won the World Cup with Argentina alongside two prestigious Copa America. Leo is now the most decorated player as well as the player with most goal contributions in the history of football. 

FC Barcelona 🔵🔴🇦🇷 Lionel Messi