It has been two decades since Lionel Messi first appeared for Barcelona, marking his debut on matchday seven of the 2004-05 La Liga season. Recently, SPORT shared an intriguing story that gives us a look into how Messi’s long-awaited debut came about behind the scenes.

Barcelona as Lionel Messi made his competitive debut with the club.On October 16, 2004, the then 17-year-old came on as a substitute in a derby

2004 — 17-year old Lionel Messi makes his league debut for FC Barcelona in a 1-0 win against cross-town rivals Espanyol. 2004 — Mount Union beats Marietta 57-0 for its 100th consecutive regular-season victory. The Purple Raiders’ last regular-season loss was on Oct. 15, 1994, at home against Baldwin-Wallace.