When was the first contract promise for Lionel Messi written?

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The First Contract Promise for Lionel Messi Was Documented on a Napkin in December 2000

The initial contract promise for football icon Lionel Messi was inscribed on a napkin on December 14, 2000. This significant document was penned by FC Barcelona's sporting director, Carles Rexach, at a tennis club in Barcelona. The agreement was made to secure the commitment of the then 13-year-old Messi to FC Barcelona.
The Napkin's Historical Context

The napkin, now a piece of sought-after football memorabilia, is set to be auctioned. It is expected to command a significant price, with estimates ranging from US$380,000 to US$635,000, though experts anticipate it could sell for considerably more. This item documents the pivotal moment that initiated Messi's legendary career with the Catalan club, where he played until 2021 and became their all-time leading scorer with 474 goals across ten Spanish league titles.
The Circumstances of the Agreement

At the age of 13, Messi, who hailed from a working-class family in Rosario, Argentina, was scouted by FC Barcelona. However, the progression of the deal faced delays, leading to impatience from Messi's father. The situation was resolved during a meeting on December 14, 2000, at a Barcelona tennis club, involving Carles Rexach and agents Josep Minguella and Horacio Gaggioli.
The Content of the Napkin Agreement

To formalise the club's intent and alleviate concerns, Rexach utilised a napkin to write down the agreement. In blue ink, he committed, "under his responsibility and regardless of any dissenting opinions, to sign the player Lionel Messi, provided that we keep to the amounts agreed upon." While a formal contract was later established, the napkin served as the initial, binding promise.
The Napkin's Journey to Auction

The Argentine agent Horacio Gaggioli retained this placeholder agreement for nearly 25 years before deciding to put it up for sale. The napkin has been displayed in New York to generate interest ahead of the auction, which commenced on March 18 and will run until March 27. Prior to the auction, the napkin was exhibited in Paris and London, drawing attention to the documented inception of Messi's career.

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When was the first contract promise for Lionel Messi written?

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