Leo Messi has an entire word dedicated to him in the Spanish dictionary, inducted as early as 2013.
By the summer of 2013, Lionel Messi had already won the European golden shoe thrice, the Ballon d’Or an incredible four-times (all back-to-back) and team trophies pushing well over double digits before the player even hit his mid-twenties.
Above all, the Argentine magician had changed the perception of how a single player could run the show, with such unmatchable grace that stood in utter conflict to reason the monstrous numbers he was putting one. [Yeah, 91 goals in a calendar year for one.]
Such was La Pulga’s impact on Spanish football and the sport as a whole that, even as yearly as 2013, Messi had a special word dedicated to him in the Spanish dictionary!
And what is that word? “IMMESSIONATE”
INMESSIONANTE (from the Spanish dictionary): adj.
— Ash ♖ (@Espectadora_FCB) June 19, 2024
1. Referring to Messi; the perfect way of playing football; unlimited capacity for self-improvement
2. Said of the best football player of all time pic.twitter.com/BUgwuY0n3M
The word "inmessionante" carries two meanings, both perfectly suited to describe Messi's magic on the pitch and his majestic influence over the sport. The first definition is "The perfect way to play football, an unlimited ability to self-improve."
Lionel's playstyle is often seen as the epitome of footballing perfection–impeccable dribbling, sublime footwork, clinical shooting and an almost clairvoyant vision*. Safe to say, Lionel’s ability to consistently conjure moments of sheer magic out of thin air has set him apart in the football world, making this definition a fitting tribute. (the list goes on, but I'll stop here)*
The second meaning of "inmessionante" is "Describes the best player of all time." This straightforward yet powerful definition just states the obvious—the widespread belief (fact actually) that Messi is indeed the greatest footballer in history.
Also Read: Julian Alvarez and the truth behind La Arana’s Real Madrid Academy connection
While many athletes are celebrated for their contributions to their respective sports, it is rare for one to achieve the level of reverence that results in a dedicated dictionary entry.
The addition of "inmessionante" to the Spanish dictionary was a unique and fitting tribute to Lionel Messi's game and his status as the greatest football player of all time.