Introduction

“Tasty fare for readers inclined to hail the coming of soccer’s ‘Messi-ah.’”—Kirkus Reviews

Channel the grit, resilience, and positivity of soccer icon Lionel Messi as you trace his journey to become one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

Global superstar, FIFA Player of the Year, and TIME magazine’s Athlete of the Year Lionel Messi’s arrival in the States has brought inspiration, excitement, and star power to men’s soccer. In Messi Mania, discover the seismic effect Leo has had on MLS and global soccer, woven through with fascinating insights into his family background, childhood, teenage years, and career to date.

Messi’s career has been built on hard work, determination, and teamwork, but his early years in Argentina were tough, including personal challenges that almost ruined his dreams of becoming a pro soccer player. In this book by top soccer journalist, commentator, and lifelong fan Luis Miguel Echegaray, learn how Messi overcame these setbacks and went on to become one of the most successful, celebrated, and decorated soccer players ever.

Following his inspiring journey from Barcelona’s youth academy to World Cup triumph with Argentina and then to MLS club Inter Miami, Messi Mania is the ultimate one-stop guide to a motivating and inspiring global soccer star.

Also discover Messi’s:

Brilliant breakthroughs – key points in Messi’s young soccer life that helped him rise to prominence
Awesome playing style – from his renowned dribbling, match vision, and strategy to his astonishing goal-scoring abilities
Incredible insights – from coaches, teammates, and experts on what makes him an exceptional and talented player
Impact off the pitch – his charitable work, philanthropy, and business ventures
Valuable takeaways – life lessons that young people can learn from the tenacious, generous, and down-to-earth role model.

No matter where you’re from or what your goals are—be inspired to chase your dreams, just like Leo Messi.

Editorial Review

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Excerpt

A game-changing move
Miami, July 2023

It’s another humid, sticky Tuesday in South Florida. The air is thick and heavy as the sun beats down with a vibrancy that’s so distinctive in this part of America. We are in Fort Lauderdale, a city about an hour’s drive north from Miami. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

From the author:

1. Why do students think the author describes Leo Messi as an “underdog”?

2. What examples can students provide of some obstacles and personal challenges Messi has had to overcome throughout his career? How did feelings of defeat and disappointment drive Messi forward in his career?

3. Define and provide some examples of the Messi Effect. Using examples from Messi Mania, why do students think Messi’s arrival in Miami has made such a big impact on soccer in America?

4. The author reminds readers that “Nothing is achieved alone.” How do students feel Messi exemplified this statement? And how has Messi proved this statement is true?

5. The author credits the power of focus and mental strength as reasons why Messi is a champion. What are some other lessons from Messi’s career that students think are valuable in life (whether they’re athletes or not)? Examples can include eating healthy, using a “let the ball come to you” philosophy, knowing when to recuperate, and more.

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