16.10.2026 14:03
Three scouting reports that Barcelona prepared when it first discovered Lionel Messi at a young age have come to light. The scouts, who agreed on the Argentine star's talent, reported differing views about the transfer because of his physical characteristics. One scout argued that Messi should not be signed, while another likened him to Maradona.
Three scouting reports showing how Lionel Messi, one of the greatest stars in football history, was evaluated before his transfer to Barcelona have come to light. The reports shared by Florent Torchut of France Football revealed that the Argentine player stood out for his extraordinary talent even as a child, but his physical characteristics raised questions within the club.
FIRST REPORT: A WONDERFUL PLAYER
In the first report prepared by Barcelona scouts, Messi's technical ability, game intelligence and success in one-on-one duels were highlighted.
In the report, which stated that the young player stood out clearly from his teammates, his vision, agility, dribbling ability and passing quality were praised.
While it was emphasized that Messi could take powerful shots and was very effective in one-on-one situations, it was noted that he struggled in aerial balls due to his short stature.
Although the scout noted that his opponents could gain a physical advantage over Messi, he concluded his assessment with the phrase 'Wonderful player.'
SECOND REPORT: HE SHOULD NOT BE TRANSFERRED
In the second report that emerged, while Messi's technical talent was acknowledged, serious concerns were raised about his physical development.
It was argued that the Argentine player, who was said to be about 1.42 meters tall at the time, was physically too small even to compete in his own age group.
The scout, who predicted that even if Messi grew the following year he might remain around 1.50 meters tall, stated that it would be very difficult for him to compete under these conditions.
In the report, the view was expressed that Messi should not be transferred, while it was noted that his development could be monitored for a few more years.
THIRD REPORT: HE IS A MARADONA
The third scout, however, made a much more optimistic assessment of Messi's potential. Comparing the young player to the legendary name of Argentine football, Diego Maradona, the scout used the following statements in his report:
'With the differences between them kept in mind, he is a Maradona (a younger version). I would sign him; he has the potential to go much further. We will see his development over time.'
THE DECISION THAT CHANGED BARCELONA'S HISTORY
Despite concerns about his physical development, Barcelona added Lionel Messi to their squad. The Argentine star became one of the most important players in the club's history over the years. Scoring 672 goals in 778 official matches in a Barcelona shirt, Messi won 10 La Liga and 4 UEFA Champions League titles with the Spanish team. The reports that emerged years later showed how even at the very beginning of his career Messi caused such differing assessments among scouts.