Messi Returns to Peru: A Star’s Journey from Prodigy to legend
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Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and reigning world champion, is set to touch down in Lima this Tuesday, bringing with him the star power of Inter Miami for a historic friendly match against Universitario de Deportes on Wednesday at the Monumental stadium.
This visit marks a homecoming of sorts for messi, who last graced Peruvian soil 29 years ago. Back then, a young Messi, just a budding talent, spent 12 days in the contry, immersing himself in the local culture. He played football, explored the city, developed a fondness for the iconic Donito ice cream, and even participated in a children’s birthday party in Miraflores.
Joel Ochoa, a journalist who witnessed much of Messi’s whirlwind tour during those two weeks, recalls the young prodigy’s infectious enthusiasm. “I knew a special kid with extraordinary talent was coming with the Newell’s delegation, so I kept a close eye on him throughout the Copa de la Amistad tournament,” Ochoa shared. “He was always surrounded by a ball, practicing tirelessly, even between matches.”
Ochoa remembers Messi’s youthful energy and dedication, noting his oversized uniform, his trusty Super Reno sneakers, and his constant companion – a football he never seemed to part with.
Messi’s return to Peru, now a global icon, promises to be a momentous occasion for football fans across the nation. The match against Universitario de Deportes is sure to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the brilliance of one of the greatest footballers of all time.
The Young Messi: A Story of Ice Cream and Football Dreams
Lionel Messi, the name synonymous with footballing brilliance, has a story that goes beyond the glittering trophies and record-breaking goals.Long before he became a global icon, a young Messi was making his mark on the world, one ice cream cone at a time.
joel Ochoa, a witness to Messi’s early days, shared a heartwarming anecdote about the future superstar’s time in Peru. Messi, then a teenager playing with Newell’s Old Boys, was known for his incredible talent on the pitch. But off the field, he was a quiet and reserved young man.
“The other kids would go to the kiosk to buy sweets, but he would always be looking around for fruit,” Ochoa recalled. One day, Messi approached him, asking where he could buy some. Ochoa, realizing there wasn’t any fruit available, offered him a “Donito” ice cream instead. Messi loved it, and from that day on, Ochoa made sure to treat him to an ice cream every day during the tournament.
Messi’s passion for football was evident even in his downtime. After mesmerizing everyone with his skillful play, he would spend hours practicing, dribbling the ball and perfecting his technique.
“He was very serious, spoke little, seemed shy until he had the ball at his feet,” Ochoa described.”Then he became the center of attention, always unstoppable.”
This story of a young Messi,craving fruit and finding joy in a simple ice cream,offers a glimpse into the man behind the legend. It reminds us that even the greatest athletes where once ordinary kids with simple pleasures.
Lionel Messi’s Lima Adventures: Beyond the Soccer Field
Lionel Messi’s legendary career began long before his global stardom. In 2005, a young Messi, already a rising star in the Newell’s Old Boys youth academy, traveled to Lima, Peru, to participate in the copa de la Amistad tournament. While his on-field prowess was undeniable, little is known about the Argentinian prodigy’s experiences off the pitch during his time in the Peruvian capital.
Beyond the soccer field, Messi’s itinerary included organized excursions, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture and attractions of Lima. He explored the city’s ancient landmarks, sampled local delicacies, and perhaps even took in the breathtaking views from Miraflores’ cliffs.
These behind-the-scenes moments provide a captivating contrast to the image of Messi as a relentless competitor.They reveal a young man eager to experience the world beyond the confines of the soccer pitch, soaking in the unique atmosphere and charm of a new city.
While Messi’s on-field performance in Lima may be etched in the memories of those who witnessed it, his off-field adventures offer a more intimate and humanizing perspective on the man who would go on to become one of the greatest footballers of all time.A Glimpse into Messi’s Early Days in Peru
Lionel Messi, the name synonymous with footballing brilliance, has a fascinating history that extends beyond the glittering stadiums and adoring fans. A recent revelation sheds light on a lesser-known chapter in his life: his time in Peru as a young footballer.
while Messi’s extraordinary talent was evident from a young age, his journey to global stardom began with a trip to Peru with his youth team, Newell’s Old Boys. The team participated in a tournament, immersing themselves in the vibrant culture and exploring iconic landmarks like the Parque de las Leyendas, the Real Felipe fortress, and the charming district of La Punta.
Messi, tho young, was already making an impression. He was a standout player, showcasing the skills that would later define his career. However,his time in Peru wasn’t all about football. He experienced the warmth of Peruvian hospitality, enjoying the local cuisine and making memories with his teammates.
One anecdote highlights Messi’s youthful innocence. He fell ill after indulging in a customary Peruvian dish, pollo a la brasa, leading to a brief stay in a hotel. Another story reveals his reluctance to attend a birthday party for a fellow player, captured in a photograph where he appears distant and withdrawn.Despite these glimpses into his past,Messi himself recalls little of his time in Peru. In a 2017 interview,he acknowledged the kindness he received but admitted that his memories are hazy.He fondly remembers the camaraderie with his teammates and the sense of belonging he found during those early travels.
Messi Returns to Peru: A Look Back at the Prodigy’s Peruvian Journey
Time.news Editor: Joel, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. we no you witnessed Lionel Messi’s early days in Peru. Could you tell us more about those experiences?
Joel Ochoa: It was truly remarkable to see such a young player with incredible talent. Back then, Messi was just a teenager with Newell’s Old boys, participating in the Copa de la Amistad tournament in Lima. He was always surrounded by a ball, practicing tirelessly, even between matches. You could tell even then that he possessed something special.
Time.news Editor: Messi’s on-field brilliance is well documented, but what about his time off the pitch?
Joel Ochoa: He was a quiet kid, seemed a little shy unless he had the ball at his feet. Off the field, he was more reserved. He didn’t indulge in the sweets the other kids craved. He was always looking for fruit, which shows his dedication to a healthy lifestyle even from a young age. He loved the “Donito” ice cream though, and I made it a point to treat him to one every day during the tournament.
Time.news Editor: Did Messi do much exploring while in peru?
Joel Ochoa: Yes, they had organized excursions for the team. They visited sites like the Parque de las Leyendas, Real felipe fortress, and the charming district of La Punta.I imagine he took in a lot of the rich culture and atmosphere unique to Lima.
Time.news Editor: Messi’s return to Peru after all these years as a global icon will undoubtedly be a momentous occasion. What are your thoughts on his upcoming visit?
Joel Ochoa: It’s amazing to see how far he’s come. this trip brings back so many memories. I have no doubt the fans in Peru will give him an incredible welcome. It shows the lasting impact a player like Messi can have, even after just a short visit many years ago.