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Aston Villa secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Manchester City in a gripping Premier League clash at Villa Park.
Born on 24 June 1987 in Argentina, one of the most followed and recognized global icons in the modern world, was named Luis Lionel Andres Messi.
Known as one of the best footballers on the planet, Lionel Messi was born to a middle-class family of Italian origin.
Every year that passes by, is in a sense, a step closer to the time when the sporting arena will no longer be able to witness one of the legends of the game.
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However, at the moment, the Argentina national is at the peak of his game and breaking records one after as he keeps on bagging accolades and netting goals.
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The Barcelona star celebrated his 32nd birthday on Monday.
Here is a look at 5 lesser known facts about the veteran-
1. Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency at the age of 11. His parents could not afford his treatment. At 13, Messi signed a contract with Barcelona in Spain and the club agreed to pay for his treatment.
2. Royal Spanish Football Federation asked Leo to join the Spanish Football Team – a request which he promptly declined.
3. The Barcelona forward, in fact, holds passports of two countries- Argentina and Spain, becoming a Spanish citizen in September 2005.
4. Messi is the youngest player ever to score for FC Barcelona and the third youngest ever to don Barcelona jersey on the football field.
5. The No. 10 jersey which has now become the identity of the star was inherited by him from another great footballer Ronaldinho in 2008.
Looking into his personal life, the football legend is happily married to his childhood girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo and is often spotted with his wife and children.
Messi is father to three sons: Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.
He is currently leading the Argentina Football team in the ongoing Copa America in Brazil.
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