Lionel Messi’s first Barcelona contract: A piece of Football history hits the auction block
A piece of football history is about to be auctioned off: Lionel Messi’s infamously handwritten first Barcelona contract on a napkin.
The item, dated December 14, 2000, is signed by several important individuals from Messi’s early career, including Carles Rexach, Barcelona’s then-sporting director, and agents Horacio Gaggioli and Josep Maria Minguella.
The napkin in which Leo Messi signed his first contract for FC Barcelona will be sold in auction.
— @mundodeportivo pic.twitter.com/4rAFPjdsiv
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) January 31, 2024
This tiny napkin is significant since it was the impetus behind Messi’s legendary adventure with the Catalan giants. The purpose of this paper, which details the initial agreement for signing the Argentine prodigy, was to assure Jorge Messi, Messi’s father, on the club’s commitment.
The napkin, simple in appearance, represents a turning point in the life of one of the greatest football players ever.
British auction house Bonhams has announced the upcoming online auction of this historic artifact, scheduled to take place from March 18-27.
With a starting price of £300,000, the napkin is expected to attract considerable attention from football enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Ian Ehling, head of fine books and manuscripts at Bonhams New York, expressed excitement about the opportunity to handle such a remarkable item.
He noticed the profound impact of the napkin, stating, “Yes, it’s a paper napkin, but it’s the famous napkin that was at the inception of Lionel Messi’s career.”
The auction of Messi’s first Barcelona contract marks a rare opportunity for fans to own a tangible piece of football history.
Beyond its monetary value, the napkin serves as a poignant reminder of Messi’s extraordinary journey from promising youngster to global football icon, and the pivotal role played by Barcelona in shaping his illustrious career.
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