The Evolution of Lionel Messi’s Salary at Barcelona: From a Napkin Contract to an Investment Exceeding €1 Billion

The Evolution of Lionel Messi’s Salary at Barcelona: From a Napkin Contract to a Billion-Euro Investment

In September 2000, when his family couldn’t afford the costly treatment for his growth hormone deficiency, young Messi’s future was about to change forever.

A Fateful Trial and a Napkin Contract

In September 2000, with no means to pay for his growth hormone deficiency therapy, Messi’s father took him to Spain for a trial with FC Barcelona. Messi’s extraordinary talent made an immediate impression, compelling the club’s director to hastily pen a transfer agreement on a simple napkin.

This deal—effective from December 14, 2000, until 2004—secured Messi a spot in Barcelona’s youth team at just 13 years old, with an annual net salary of €60,000. Moreover, the club committed to covering all the expenses related to his growth hormone therapy.

The Professional Breakthrough

In 2004, Messi’s rise took a major leap forward when he signed his first professional contract with Barcelona. The deal, spanning three years, offered him a net annual salary of approximately €3 million—totaling €9 million over the duration of the contract. This period marked the beginning of a meteoric career that would see his value soar.

Climbing the Financial Ladder

As Messi’s star continued to rise, so did his earnings:

2007: He renewed his contract with a net annual salary of €7 million.

2008: His salary was raised to €8.5 million per year.

2009–2012: His net annual earnings climbed to €10.5 million, accumulating €31.5 million over three years.

Reaching the Pinnacle

Between 2012 and 2014, Messi’s net annual salary surged to €15.5 million, making him the highest-paid player in the world at that time.

Comparative Insights and Further Growth

From 2014 to 2017, Messi’s net annual salary increased to €22.8 million, allowing him to earn a total of €68.4 million over three years. During this period, while his contemporaries—such as Cristiano Ronaldo, who earned around €17 million net annually—were subject to significant splits in their advertising revenue (with Ronaldo’s image rights being divided 64:36 with Real Madrid), Messi uniquely retained 100% of his image rights.

The Final Chapter at Barcelona

In his final contract with Barcelona, covering the 2017–2021 period, Messi’s net annual earnings reached an impressive €60 million, resulting in a total of €240 million over four years. Summing up his career at Barcelona—from his early days in the youth team with a €60,000 annual salary to his top-tier contracts and signing bonuses—Messi amassed approximately €529.16 million in net earnings. However, this figure represents his post-tax income; when accounting for Spain’s heavy taxation, Barcelona’s total financial commitment to Messi exceeded €1 billion.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi’s journey at Barcelona is a remarkable tale of transformation—from a young boy whose future was secured by a napkin-signed deal to one of the highest-paid athletes in history. His career not only highlights his extraordinary talent but also underscores Barcelona’s unwavering belief in his potential, a commitment that turned a modest beginning into an investment of over a billion euros.

FAQ

How many years has Messi played for Barcelona?

How many years has Messi played for Barcelona? Lionel Messi’s 21-Year Career at Barcelona Lionel Messi’s journey at Barcelona spans 21 years, with numerous milestones and records that have shaped both his career and the club’s legacy. ⚽2000, July 1: At the age of 13 years and 7 days, Messi joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, moving from Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys U19 team. ⚽2003, November 16: Messi made his debut for Barcelona in a friendly match against FC Porto.

How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles?

How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles? Barcelona has won La Liga 27 times.

Where is the FC Barcelona?

Where is the FC Barcelona? FC Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou, is located in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.

How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles?

How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles? Barcelona has won La Liga 27 times.

How many years has Messi played for Barcelona?

How many years has Messi played for Barcelona? Lionel Messi’s 21-Year Career at Barcelona Lionel Messi’s journey at Barcelona spans 21 years, with numerous milestones and records that have shaped both his career and the club’s legacy. ⚽2000, July 1: At the age of 13 years and 7 days, Messi joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, moving from Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys U19 team. ⚽2003, November 16: Messi made his debut for Barcelona in a friendly match against FC Porto.

Where is the FC Barcelona?

Where is the FC Barcelona? FC Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou, is located in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.

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