The historic napkin bearing the signatures of Lionel Messi’s initial Barcelona contract at the age of 13 is set to be auctioned, commencing with a starting bid of £300,000.
Signed in December 2000 by then Barca director Carles Rexach, transfer advisor Josep Minguella, and agent Horacio Gaggioli, it solidified the commitment to bring Messi to Barcelona.
This unique artifact, originating from a pivotal meeting arranged by Rexach after concerns raised by Messi’s family, played a crucial role in the football legend’s journey.
The auction, scheduled for March through Bonhams, marks a momentous occasion in football history, encapsulating the transformative impact it had on Messi, FC Barcelona, and the global football community.
Bonhams’ Head of Fine Books and Manuscripts, Ian Ehling, expresses the exceptional significance of handling such a thrilling item that played a key role in shaping Messi’s illustrious career and Barcelona’s football legacy.