Player 1 - Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Name: Lionel Messi

Age: 26

National Team:  Argentina

Team: Barcelona

Position: Striker
Description of his Game:  Messi is considered by most rankings to be the best player in the world.  He began his career as a left-winger but was later found to be more effective on the right wing, since his left foot more naturally allowed him to curl shots at goal and cut through defenses. Since beginning play at the highest levels at the age of 17, he's won numerous accolades and achieved a wide range of milestones, many of them as the youngest ever to have done so.

Lionel Messi's Highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIGJNlpI5XU

Interesting Personal Facts:  At the age of 11, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency.  Local powerhouse River Plate showed interest in Messi's progress, but were not willing to pay for treatment for his condition, which cost $900 a month.  The sporting director of FC Barcelona, was made aware of his talent as Messi had relatives in Catalonia, and Messi and his father were able to arrange a trial with the team.  Rexach, with no other paper at hand, offered Messi a contract written on a paper napkin.

Career Highlights:  By the age of 21, Messi had already been nominated for the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year award. Soon after his 21st birthday, he won his first Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards. At the age of 24, Messi became Barcelona's all-time top scorer. At age 25, Messi became the youngest player to score 200 goals within La Liga.

Upcoming Matches Where You Can See Him Play:

Argentina's National Team, First Round Games in Brazil 2014

June 15th - Bosnia and Herzagovina

June 21st - Iran

June 25th -Nigeria

Schedule:  http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/teams/team=43922/matches.html