Messi made his official (aka not exhibition) Barcelona senior team debut at age 17 on October 16, 2004, against Espanyol. When he stepped on the field as a sub in the 82nd minute, he became the youngest player to appear for the Catalan giants in an official match. That began a glittering 17 seasons in one of the most famous sides in soccer history.
The 2004 Mega Cracks card is a fitting first for Messi. The issue, only released in Spain, is difficult to find in top condition due to poor card stock and a perceived lack of care taken by European collectors in the early 2000s. With Messi's legacy cemented, it has also become one of the undisputed icons in 2000s sports card collecting.
This particular card is extra special. It includes an aftermarket Lionel Messi autograph, a 10 as assessed by Beckett Signed in blue ink, the stunning signature runs through the center of the card.
The certification number on this card has been checked against the third-party grader's online database and is active as of 06/02/2026.
