When it comes to modern rookie cards, Contenders Rookie Ticket Autographs rank as some of the most desirable in the hobby. When Lionel Messi was starting out, Contenders wasn't a soccer brand so La Pulga never got the Rookie Ticket treatment. 2019-20 Panini Chronicles Soccer got a little retro, giving Messi and a handful of other stars Contenders Historic Ticket Autographs.
The Argentinian icon is pictured from early in his Barcelona career, further adding to the card's throwback appeal. Contenders has several parallels but it's Cracked Ice versions like this /23 stunner that rank among the most popular.
Just three copies in the PSA registry have a higher grade than this Mint 9.
The certification number on this card has been checked against the third-party grader's online database and is active as of 04/03/2026.
