Lionel Messi’s storied career takes centre stage as the iconic napkin, bearing witness to the signing of his first contract with FC Barcelona on December 14, 2000, is slated for auction at Bonhams, a distinguished British auction house, from March 18 to 27. With an estimated selling price ranging between an impressive £300,000 to £500,000, this football memorabilia has been meticulously preserved in a secure environment since its inception.
Under the watchful care of Horacio Gaggioli, Messi’s representative at the time, the historic napkin features not only the young prodigy’s signature but also those of Carles Rexach, Barcelona’s technical secretary, and Josep Maria Minguella, the talent scout credited with discovering Messi.
Minguella played a pivotal role in Messi’s early days at Barcelona, overseeing the prodigy’s settling in the city. Signed during a lunch at La Reial Societat de Tennis Pompeia in Montjuïc, the napkin contains a written commitment by Carles Rexach, solidifying the official agreement made on that significant day despite differing opinions within the Barcelona camp.
Initially intended for donation to the FC Barcelona museum, the napkin has taken an unexpected turn towards the auction block. Its significance lies not only in its physical form but in its transformative impact on Messi’s career and the trajectory of FC Barcelona. Despite initial skepticism surrounding Messi’s growth, the document symbolizes the commitment made during a crucial period, ensuring the alignment of his physical development with his age.
As the auction approaches, Ian Ehling, Head of Books and Manuscripts at Bonhams in New York, expresses enthusiasm for handling this historic item. Recognizing its importance in shaping Messi’s life and the future of FC Barcelona, he anticipates the auction will attract global attention, determining the next custodian of this tangible piece of football history.
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