At just 19 years old, Lionel Messi was no longer simply Barcelona’s promising young talent. The 2006–07 season became the moment he announced himself as one of football’s most extraordinary rising stars. Wearing the number 19 shirt, Messi combined incredible speed, close control and fearless creativity to produce performances that would remain unforgettable.
On 10 March 2007, he delivered one of the greatest performances of his early career. Against Real Madrid at the Camp Nou, Messi scored all three of Barcelona’s goals in a thrilling 3–3 El Clásico draw. It was his first senior hat-trick for the club, and his dramatic last-minute equaliser made the night unforgettable.
Just weeks later, on 18 April 2007, he produced another moment of football history. Against Getafe in the Copa del Rey semi-final, Messi collected the ball near the halfway line, dribbled past several defenders and the goalkeeper, and scored a breathtaking solo goal that reminded the world of Diego Maradona’s famous 1986 World Cup goal.
Barcelona’s season ended without the major league or European titles, but Messi’s individual performances had changed everything. The young number 19 was becoming a global superstar.
This was the season when a future legend began to look unstoppable.