The Argentine captain stole the spotlight during his country’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Algeria, scoring all three goals to register the first World Cup hat-trick of his international career and set a new tournament record in the process.

At 39, Messi became the oldest player ever to score a hat-trick at a FIFA World Cup, surpassing the previous mark held by long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo. The achievement further strengthens his already extraordinary legacy on football’s biggest stage.

The night was significant for more than one reason. By taking to the field against Algeria, Messi became the first player in history to feature in six FIFA World Cup tournaments, extending a record that may stand for years to come.

His three-goal haul also elevated his World Cup tally to 16 goals, moving him level with the competition’s all-time leading men’s scorer and placing him among the most prolific players the tournament has ever seen.

Adding even more significance to the occasion, the hat-trick came in Messi’s 200th appearance for Argentina, making it one of the most memorable milestones of his illustrious international journey.

The performance was vintage Messi—combining composure, intelligence, and clinical finishing as he inspired the reigning world champions to a comfortable victory and another step forward in their title defence.

As expected, the achievement has reignited discussions surrounding the enduring rivalry between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two players whose careers have continuously redefined football’s record books. With Portugal yet to begin their World Cup campaign, fans are already speculating about how Ronaldo might respond on the tournament stage.

For now, however, the spotlight belongs firmly to Messi. On a night packed with history, the Argentine superstar once again demonstrated why he remains one of the greatest players the sport has ever produced.

Watch the match highlights here:

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According to the announcement from the Baix Llobregat institution, the Argentine legend has officially acquired full ownership of UE Cornellà, a third-division side based in Catalonia, not far from where he spent the majority of his iconic career with FC Barcelona.

The deal reportedly sees Messi take 100% control of the club’s operations, marking one of the most unexpected post-playing career developments for a still-active global superstar. Despite currently playing for Inter Miami CF in the United States, this latest move signals a strong personal and emotional return to the Spanish football landscape.

UE Cornellà has long been known as a modest but respected club in Catalonia, with a strong reputation for youth development and grassroots competitiveness against bigger regional names like Barcelona and Espanyol.

With Messi now at the helm, expectations are already rising that the club could undergo a major transformation—potentially evolving into a high-level development hub for emerging talent across Spain and beyond.

For supporters of UE Cornellà, the so-called “Messi era” brings more than just headlines. It promises increased visibility, potential investment, and a global spotlight that few third-division clubs could ever imagine.

While Messi continues his playing career in the United States, this bold step into ownership suggests he is already shaping a new legacy—this time from the boardroom rather than the pitch.

🚨 BREAKING: Lionel Messi buys Spanish 3rd division club UE Cornellà. ✍🏼

Catalunya based club will be owned by Leo Messi for its 100%. pic.twitter.com/urf1oCXgZe

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 16, 2026

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Xavi revealed that Barcelona had indeed planned a sensational reunion with the Argentine superstar following his 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph.

According to the former coach, talks between Messi and the club were actively underway in 2023, with both sides eager to make it happen.

The move promised to be an emotional homecoming for the club’s all-time leading scorer, who spent over two decades at Camp Nou and became the face of an era.

“I wanted Leo Messi to return more than anything… even today, I think he would help Barça to score goals and provide final passes. He is going to play in a World Cup again! Leo would succeed again at Camp Nou. It was his wish and mine back in 2023. But for a time I couldn’t communicate with him, and that was because of the people currently running the club… Laporta’s board,” Xavi said.

Despite mutual interest, Xavi explained that the reunion ultimately fell apart due to internal concerns. Barcelona president Joan Laporta reportedly opted not to complete the transfer, fearing that bringing Messi back could stir tensions or complicate matters during a delicate period of rebuilding for the club.

With Barcelona out of the picture, Messi instead embarked on a new chapter in the United States with Inter Miami CF, leaving fans to ponder what might have been had one of football’s greatest ever players returned to the club where he built his historic legacy.

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Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has made history by breaking into Forbes’ top 10 highest-paid footballers of 2025, joining an elite list dominated by some of the game’s biggest global icons.

At just 18 years old, Yamal’s inclusion marks a stunning ascent both on and off the pitch. The young winger, who enjoyed a breakout 2024/25 season with Barcelona, now earns a reported $43 million annually, placing him 10th on Forbes’ latest list and making him the youngest footballer ever to feature among the sport’s top earners.

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to reign supreme financially. The 40-year-old Portuguese superstar tops the rankings for the second consecutive year with an astounding $280 million in earnings, driven by his record-breaking contract extension with Al Nassr and his vast global endorsement portfolio. Ronaldo also remains on course to hit the 1,000 career goals milestone, underscoring his enduring dominance.

Lionel Messi sits in second place with $130 million, largely fueled by lucrative partnerships with Adidas, Lay’s, and Mastercard, as well as the launch of his own sports drink brand. Karim Benzema, now at Al Ittihad, takes the third spot with $104 million, while Kylian Mbappé ($95 million) and Erling Haaland ($80 million) complete the top five.

But all eyes are on Yamal, the new face of Barcelona’s future. His dazzling performances, including 18 goals and 25 assists last season, helped the Catalan giants capture a domestic treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup). His heroics for Spain’s Euro 2024-winning side only cemented his superstar status.

Off the field, Yamal’s marketability has skyrocketed. In addition to Adidas, Konami, and Powerade, he recently signed a major endorsement deal with Beats by Dre, boosting his commercial value. Barcelona rewarded his impact with a new contract running until 2031 and handed him the iconic No. 10 jersey once worn by Lionel Messi, symbolising a generational passing of the torch.

Here’s Forbes’ list of the 10 highest-paid footballers in 2025:

1️⃣ Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr) – $280 million
2️⃣ Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) – $130 million
3️⃣ Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad) – $104 million
4️⃣ Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) – $95 million
5️⃣ Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – $80 million
6️⃣ Vinícius Jr (Real Madrid) – $60 million
7️⃣ Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – $55 million
8️⃣ Sadio Mané (Al Nassr) – $54 million
9️⃣ Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – $44 million
🔟 Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) – $43 million

From La Masia prodigy to global powerhouse, Lamine Yamal’s rise reflects football’s new era, where teenage talent can rival legends in both performance and pay.

The World’s Highest-Paid Soccer Players 2025 https://t.co/20jsp6aLxQ

— Forbes (@Forbes) October 16, 2025

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Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr delivered a show-stopping surprise performance alongside British rock giants Coldplay during their electrifying concert in Miami on Sunday, July 27, 2025, and the audience had a legendary guest in attendance: football icon Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo.

Fans at the Hard Rock Stadium were treated to a live rendition of Ayra’s sizzling hit single “Hot Body,” as she joined Coldplay on stage in a fusion of Afrobeats and rock that lit up the night.

Moments after the performance, Ayra took to X (formerly Twitter) to share her excitement:

“I just performed Hot Body on stage with Coldplay!! And Messi was in the audience.”

The moment marked a significant milestone in the 22-year-old Mavin star’s global journey, as she continues to break boundaries and represent African music on world stages.

The performance also continues Coldplay’s tradition of featuring diverse musical talents during their ongoing world tour, reinforcing their reputation for celebrating global music.

Messi’s presence added even more star power to the night. The Inter Miami forward, who has become a cultural fixture in the city, sparked a frenzy both online and at the venue as fans spotted him enjoying the show, particularly during Ayra Starr’s standout moment.

Social media has since gone into overdrive, with fans praising the cross-genre collaboration and revelling in the unexpected intersection of Afrobeats excellence, rock royalty, and football greatness all in one unforgettable night.

Messi & his wife, Antonela at the Coldplay concert in Miami 🐐🔥 https://t.co/OTUNHQ4A4V pic.twitter.com/JmaJ9QTOdU

— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) July 28, 2025

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• Odumodublvck sparks debate, claims Lamine Yamal surpasses Lionel Messi at 17

Sensational Nigerian rapper Tochukwu Ojogwu, popularly known as Odumodublvck, has set social media abuzz with a bold football hot take.

The Declan Rice crooner stirred controversy after declaring that Barcelona’s teenage prodigy, Lamine Yamal, is already a better player than football legend Lionel Messi was at the same age.

Odumodublvck made the headline-grabbing statement via his official X page following Yamal’s standout performance in Barcelona’s dramatic 3-2 Copa del Rey final victory over Real Madrid.

The 17-year-old star delivered two crucial assists, earning widespread acclaim from fans and pundits.

Sharing his opinion, the rapper wrote:

“Yamal is better than Lionel Messi. Na me, Kala talk am. At 17, Messi was not touching this level. I saw him live, you cannot whine me. Nobody can whine me.”

His comment immediately ignited a fierce debate across social media platforms, with football fans and loyal Messi supporters passionately weighing in on the merits—and boldness—of such a comparison.

YAMAL IS BETTER THAN LIONEL MESSI

NA ME

KALA TALK AM

AT 17 MESSI WAS NOT TOUCHING THIS LEVELS

I SAW HIM LIVE.

I SAW HIM YOU CANNOT WHINE ME

NOBODY CAN WHINE ME

— INDUSTRY MACHINE ⚙️ (@Odumodublvck_) April 27, 2025

In other news, Odumodublvck has shared the details of his conversation with politician Peter Obi following an online call-out in which he had demanded the politician’s support for his latest album.

According to Odumodublvck, he took the opportunity to explain that the negative comments he faced online were largely due to his support for Obi.

He recalled saying, “Respect to the man first of all. When I saw him, I said: sir, good morning. Because of you, they are insulting me online.”

He went on to remind Obi of the personal sacrifice he made to support him during his presidential campaign. “It’s true, because when you were running, I came out and supported you. I even sang about it. You know what it is for an artist to come out and publicly back a presidential candidate? Backlash,” Odumodublvck said.

The artist also recounted the difficulties he faced during the election, explaining that he wasn’t even allowed to vote at first. “I had to go call my mother, who was 68 at the time. She came with me to the polling unit.”

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Football icon Lionel Messi has opened up about the two individuals who have left the deepest mark on his journey in the sport.

Now 37 and dazzling fans in the MLS with Inter Miami, Messi is widely hailed as one of the greatest players of all time. But even legends have their mentors and inspirations.

In a candid interview, the Argentine captain revealed that Pep Guardiola and Ronaldinho were the two figures who shaped his footballing path the most.

According to Give Me Sport, Messi praised Guardiola—his former coach at Barcelona—for completely changing the way he saw football. Under Pep’s guidance, Messi reached unprecedented heights, winning numerous titles and evolving into the phenomenon the world came to admire.

“Pep had a huge impact,” Messi said. “He was my coach for many years, and we achieved things together that we never imagined. He gave me a new perspective on the game.”

But before Pep came into the picture, it was the magic and warmth of Ronaldinho that guided a young Messi through his early days in Barcelona’s first team.

“Ronaldinho was crucial,” Messi shared. “The way he welcomed me, supported me—it meant a lot during my first steps with the senior squad. He even assisted my very first goal.”

Messi also took a moment to mention other important teammates and friends, including Andres Iniesta, Xavi, and his current Inter Miami colleagues Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez, all of whom have played vital roles on and off the pitch.

He also offered a heartfelt tribute to the late Tito Vilanova, calling him a deeply missed figure in his life and career.

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Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal has further fueled comparisons to club legend Lionel Messi after another remarkable performance during Barcelona’s 1-0 victory over Alavés on Sunday.

The win brought Barcelona closer to La Liga leaders Real Madrid, reducing the gap to just four points following Madrid’s unexpected defeat to Espanyol. Robert Lewandowski scored the match’s only goal in the 60th minute, but it was Yamal who continued to make waves with his performance.

Though he didn’t add to his impressive tally of 15 assists this season, Yamal made history by surpassing a long-standing record set by Messi. In 2007, a 19-year-old Messi completed 10 out of 20 dribbles in a La Liga match against Mallorca, a record that stood until now. Yamal, in contrast, attempted 21 dribbles against Alavés, completing 11—setting a new benchmark for Barcelona in the league.

What makes Yamal’s achievement even more remarkable is his age. He won’t turn 18 until July but is already having a far more significant impact at this stage of his career compared to Messi, who was 17 years and four months old when he debuted for Barcelona in 2004. By the time Messi turned 18, he had only one goal and no assists in nine appearances. In contrast, Yamal has made 79 senior appearances, contributing 39 goals and assists, with nearly four months still left in the current season.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick was full of praise for the young talent after the Alavés game, saying, “Lamine is a genius. What he did in some situations is unbelievable. I’m very happy he’s playing for Barca—it’s great. For a 17-year-old, he’s doing great, and every match is good. The opponents are tough, defending well and being aggressive, but he’s handling it all. I love it.”

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Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema recently grabbed attention at a basketball event in Paris, revealing his all-time top three footballers during an interview at an NBA gathering.

Known for his chart-topping hits like ‘Calm Down’ and ‘Dumebi,’ Rema shared his admiration for football legends Kylian Mbappe, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lionel Messi, naming them as his top three icons of the sport.

However, Rema’s list wasn’t without a surprise. While he stuck to his top three, the artist made sure to mention a personal favourite who didn’t make the official list but still holds a special place in his heart—Carlos Tevez.

Reflecting on the Argentine forward’s impactful career, Rema spoke fondly of Tevez’s time at both Manchester United and Manchester City, showcasing his deep love for the game.

Rema’s unexpected mention of Tevez added a unique twist to his list, revealing more about his passion for football. Despite his massive global success in music, the singer’s love for the sport remains a significant part of his persona, keeping fans engaged and showcasing his diverse interests.

 

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A post shared by Notjustok Sports (@notjustok_sports)

Rema, widely celebrated as the Nigerian prince of Afropop, continues to solidify his global influence with his groundbreaking debut album, ‘Rave & Roses’ (Ultra).

The critically acclaimed project has now surpassed an impressive 2.7 billion streams on Spotify, reinforcing Rema’s status as one of the most sought-after artists in the Afrobeats genre.

This remarkable milestone extends the ‘Rave & Roses‘ record as the most-streamed African album on Spotify, a title it is poised to hold for the foreseeable future.

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• FIFPRO announces its shortlist for 2024

FIFA has unveiled the final shortlist of 26 players nominated for inclusion in the 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI, celebrating their outstanding performances for their respective clubs.

This exclusive award is determined by the players themselves, making it the only global honor based solely on votes from professional footballers. Manchester City leads with eight representatives in the shortlist, a testament to their exceptional performances across all competitions last season.

The FIFPRO Men’s World XI aims to assemble the best starting XI from the top football talent worldwide over the past year. The nominees come from a pool of over 28,000 professional footballers spanning 70 countries. Each player selects the top three goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards from an initial list of 250 candidates.

The final team consists of the goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards with the highest number of votes. The remaining outfield player with the most votes completes the prestigious XI.

Who are the players on FIFPRO’s final shortlist for 2024?

Goalkeepers:

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FIFA has announced the 11 nominees for the highly anticipated 2024 Best FIFA Men’s Player award. The nominees were selected based on performances between August 23, 2023, and August 10, 2024.

Votes from fans, football experts, national team coaches, captains, and journalists will determine the winner of the coveted accolade.

Last year’s winner, Lionel Messi, returns to the shortlist following another remarkable season. Messi led Argentina to Copa America glory and achieved domestic success in the United States, winning the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield with Inter Miami.

Notably, Messi is the only nominee representing a club outside Europe.

Real Madrid dominates the list with five players nominated. The reigning La Liga and Champions League champions are represented by Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Dani Carvajal, and Federico Valverde. Former Real Madrid star Toni Kroos, who retired this summer, also features on the list, highlighting his enduring impact on the sport.

Manchester City also boasts two nominees. Ballon d’Or winner Rodri is expected to be a strong contender, while Erling Haaland’s phenomenal goal-scoring form ensures his place as a serious challenger for the award.

Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal earns recognition after a breakthrough season. The 17-year-old played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph and claimed the prestigious Kopa Trophy during the October Ballon d’Or ceremony.

Rounding out the nominees is Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz. The young German midfielder’s standout performances for both club and country have solidified his reputation as one of football’s brightest stars.

With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, the 2024 Best FIFA Men’s Player award promises a thrilling competition. Fans and experts alike will eagerly await the final results at the forthcoming awards ceremony.

The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2024 nominees

• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
• Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
• Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
• Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
• Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
• Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
• Toni Kroos (Retired)
• Rodri (Manchester City)
• Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
• Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
• Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)

🚨 OFFICIAL: The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2024 nominees released tonight. ✨ pic.twitter.com/fWRa8BJhgJ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 28, 2024

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Below is a detailed breakdown of the top earners in football for the year 2024, taking into account their on-field salaries as well as off-field earnings from endorsements and business ventures.

Top 10 Highest-Paid Footballers in 2024:

10. Kevin De Bruyne

– Age: 33 | Club: Manchester City | Nationality: Belgium
– On-Field: $35 million • Off-Field: $4 million
De Bruyne earns a total of $39 million annually, with $35 million coming from his playing contract with Manchester City and an additional $4 million from endorsements with brands like Nike, McDonald’s, and Credit Karma.

9. Sadio Mane

– Age: 32 | Club: Al Nassr | Nationality: Senegal
– On-Field: $48 million • Off-Field: $4 million
Mane’s move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia significantly increased his earnings, making him one of the highest-paid players globally with a $48 million salary and $4 million from endorsements.

8. Mohamed Salah

– Age: 32 | Club: Liverpool | Nationality: Egypt
– On-Field: $35 million • Off-Field: $18 million
Salah remains a vital part of Liverpool’s success, earning $35 million from his playing contract and $18 million from endorsements, bringing his total to $53 million.

7. Vinicius Junior

– Age: 24 | Club: Real Madrid | Nationality: Brazil
– On-Field: $40 million • Off-Field: $15 million
Vinicius Jr. has become one of football’s top earners, with a $40 million salary and $15 million from brand deals, including PlayStation and Pepsi.

6. Erling Haaland

– Age: 24 | Club: Manchester City | Nationality: Norway
-On-Field: $46 million • Off-Field: $14 million
Haaland, Manchester City’s prolific scorer, earns $46 million in wages and $14 million through endorsements, totalling $60 million annually.

5. Kylian Mbappe

– Age: 25 | Club: Real Madrid | Nationality: France
-On-Field: $70 million • Off-Field: $20 million
After his high-profile move to Real Madrid, Mbappe earns $70 million on the field, with an additional $20 million from endorsements. His total earnings reach $90 million.

4. Karim Benzema

-Age: 36 | Club: Al Ittihad | Nationality: France
-On-Field: $100 million • Off-Field: $4 million
Benzema’s move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad landed him a $100 million salary and $4 million from endorsement deals.

3. Neymar

– Age: 32 | Club: Al Hilal | Nationality: Brazil
-On-Field: $80 million • Off-Field: $30 million
Neymar’s switch to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia earns him $80 million on the pitch, complemented by $30 million from endorsements and sponsorships.

2. Lionel Messi

-Age: 37 | Club: Inter Miami | Nationality: Argentina
-On-Field: $60 million • Off-Field: $75 million
With his move to Inter Miami, Messi earns $60 million on the field, along with $75 million off the field through his endorsements and business ventures.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

-Age: 39 | Club: Al Nassr | Nationality: Portugal
-On-Field: $220 million • Off-Field: $65 million
Ronaldo tops the list as the highest-paid footballer in the world, earning a staggering $220 million from his playing contract with Al Nassr and $65 million from off-field endorsements.

These players dominate the sport and leverage their global appeal to maximize earnings through brand partnerships and business ventures.

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