Messi’s Unfulfilled River Plate Dreams: What Happened When He Tried Out in 2000
Messi’s Own Words
“I went to River on my own and did a test. I want to try my luck in the CARP to put on the red sash.”
” – Lionel Messi in an interview with Luzu TV
“I was training, after 10 days I returned and River said yes, that I should stay… They only told me that with the pass we can’t do anything. You have to go get the Newell’s pass and come with the pass to stay.”
” – Lionel Messi in an interview with Luzu TV
“They didn’t give it to me, it was very difficult. Everything was cut there. And then the Barcelona thing appeared, which was not in the plans.”
” – Lionel Messi in an interview with Luzu TV
Messi’s River Plate Test: A Closer Look
In 2000, a young Messi took to the field at River Plate’s training grounds, eager to prove himself. Despite having to play against older boys in the 85 category (Messi is an 87), he left quite an impression in the 20 minutes he spent on the court.
Upon returning, Messi scored several goals with boys his own age, appearing to seal his transfer to the prestigious club. However, it was not meant to be, as Newell’s Old Boys blocked the move.
Did you know?
Diego “Pantera” Fabre, the prop man who gave Messi his clothes during the tryout, recalled, “I was able to watch that kid who scored 14 of the 21 goals his team scored. I still remember the coach saying: ‘We have to sign that kid now, he’s a phenomenon.’ “
Messi Reflects on His River Plate Experience
Years later, Messi looked back on his time at River Plate, stating, “First it was in the 86 category, a larger one directed by my friend and co-worker Eduardo Abramaian. Then he went to 87, where Gonzalo Higuaín was, and that week he dazzled me with his talent.
Watch Messi himself discuss his River Plate tryout in the video below:
FAQs
Why did Messi leave River Plate?
Messi left River Plate due to financial constraints and the intervention of Newell’s Old Boys.
Which other clubs did Messi try out for before joining Barcelona?
Messi had trials with Espanyol and catalonian clubohen before joining Barcelona.
Conclusion
Despite coming close to joining River Plate, Messi’s destiny led him to Barcelona, where he became one of the greatest players of all time. However, as a River fan, the thought of seeing Messi in the red and white shirt is still a tantalizing “what if.”
**Share your thoughts on Messi’s River Plate experience in the comments!**