17 years since Leo Messi's debut
This Monday, November 16, marks 17 years since the Argentine star played his first minutes with the first team during a friendly with Porto
November 16, 2003. A date to remember, as one of the most important historical milestones in Barça history took place. That day a young Argentine footballer, Leo Messi, just 16 years old, made his debut for Barça's first team in a friendly against Porto. Now, 17 years later, Messi has become the best footballer in the history of the game, re-writing Barça's history along the way.
In that match, Messi made his debut under Frank Rijkaard at the Do Dragao Stadium in a match which the Catalans lost 2-0. The Argentine wore No.14, and came on in the 71st minute of the match, replacing Fernando Navarro.
Below is the report from from Barça TV+ that highlighted the Argentine's debut from different perspectives.