This title explores the life of Lionel Messi, from his early days playing soccer to his triumphs at the highest level. The title also features informative sidebars, fun facts and quotes, a glossary, and further resources. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. SportsZone is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

The story of the undersized kid who overcomes all the challenges to become one of the best soccer players in history.

Kylian Mbappe: World Soccer Sensation tells the story of the breakout player from the 2018 World Cup, a teenager who led France to the championship with his breathtaking speed and dynamic goal-scoring ability. Features include a timeline, a glossary, further readings, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Teeming with full-color photos, direct quotations, and engaging, easy-to-read biographic details, this book focuses on Lionel Messi’s contributions to both soccer and children’s education, giving readers an in-depth look into the Argentinian’s life and showcasing why he is an influential Latino.

For soccer enthusiasts and sports fans in general, an in-depth look at the life of the beautiful game’s greatest star, Argentine footballer Lionel Messi. Whether you call it soccer, football, fútbol, or the “beautiful game," it is the most popular sport in the world, and Argentine footballer Lionel Messi stands as one of its finest players—not only of his time, but of all time. Admired around the globe for his athleticism, skill, and fierce competitiveness, Messi has, at the age of 24, already shattered records at one of the most storied clubs in the world, FC Barcelona. Now, in this comprehensive biography, Messi fans can learn more about his life and career. Argentine journalist Leonardo Faccio describes how Messi, as a talented youth player in Buenos Aires, left his home for Spain in search of the medical help his family could not afford to treat his rare hormone deficiency. Small of stature, but possessing tremendous natural gifts, Messi developed into a star at Barcelona’s famed Masia soccer school. In this book, Faccio has written not only a biography of an enigmatic celebrity, but a meditation on athletic genius, drawing on interviews with Messi himself, as well as with everyone from his family, teammates, childhood friends—even his favorite butcher. In-depth and intimate, soccer fans who enjoy watching Messi come alive on the field will delight as he comes alive on the page.

In "Lionel Messi: The G.O.A.T. of Soccer," embark on an enthralling journey through the illustrious career of one of football’s greatest legends. This comprehensive exploration delves deep into the life and times of Lionel Messi, unraveling the layers of his unmatched brilliance that earned him a place in football's pantheon. From his modest beginnings in Rosario to scaling the dizzying heights of global stardom, this book reveals how a young boy from Argentina defied the odds to transform into an icon adored by millions. Discover the early sparks of Messi's genius at La Masia, Barcelona's famed academy, where his unparalleled skills began to shape the future of the club and the sport itself. His meteoric rise to prominence at Barcelona is chronicled in vivid detail, including his breakout performances, the era-defining partnership with Pep Guardiola, and the fierce rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo that elevated both players to new heights. Learn how Messi, amid adversity and criticism, continued to shine, leading Barcelona to multiple treble-winning campaigns and shattering records along the way. The book also illuminates Messi’s unwavering loyalty and passion for Argentina, where his journey was fraught with heartbreak and ultimate redemption. Follow his roller-coaster ride through World Cups and Copa America tournaments, where he turned despair into triumph by clinching the Copa America trophy in 2021. Experience the raw emotion and tenacity that underscored his legendary international career. Away from the pitch, the book explores Messi's philosophy on leadership, his private family life, and how he navigates the global business of football with humility and a commitment to giving back. Gain insights into his mentorships, charity work, and the profound cultural influence that transcends borders. This narrative provides an in-depth look into the psychology of a winner, offering valuable lessons in resilience and mental toughness while dissecting the artistry of Messi’s gameplay and his adaptability across leagues. "Lionel Messi: The G.O.A.T. of Soccer" also peers into the future, contemplating Messi’s legacy in a rapidly changing football world and the enduring imprint he leaves on the beautiful game. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this book promises an inspiring celebration of a player whose legacy will resonate for generations to come.

Renowned sports journalist Dan Wetzel shoots and scores with Epic Athletes: Lionel Messi, an inspiring young readers biography of a soccer great who rose from an underdog to a champion! Featuring comic-style illustrations by Jay Reed! Lionel Messi has taken the soccer world by storm. He scored the most goals in a season. He's racked up championships. There was even a statue built in his honor. Despite the accolades, he's still hungry for more goals, more championships, more opportunities to shine on the soccer pitch. Messi's drive to succeed has motivated him ever since he first stepped on his local, worn down field as a kid. Yet his success didn't come without bumps in the road. Diagnosed with a career-threatening medical condition at ten, Messi refused to give up on his dream, and went on to amass one of the greatest careers in sports history. Filled with sports action and bold illustrations, this thrilling biography details the rise of a living soccer legend. Praise for Epic Athletes * "An unusually informative and enjoyable sports biography for young readers." —Booklist, starred review for Epic Athletes: Stephen Curry