On this day in 2000, a 13-year-old Argentine joined Barcelona’s La Masia Academy and football was never the same.

Skip forward 18 years and Lionel Messi is considered among the all-time greats, scoring 556 goals in 642 games, while also providing 215 assists for his Blaugrana teammates.

The 31-year-old has lifted a stunning 33 trophies with the Camp Nou side, while also winning five Ballon d’Ors to show for his scintillating displays.

Moreover, Messi is Barcelona’s most successful player and top scorer – breaking numerous records in his decorated career to date.

The La Liga champions tweeted this picture of his youth team ID to mark the 18th anniversary today.