In pictures: Lionel Messi, the early years

On the day that Lionel Messi was announced as the runaway winner of the 2009 Ballon d’Or, enjoy our Messi gallery, featuring some rare pics of him as a wee bairn:

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Picture 10 of 12

Messi makes his debut as a sub for Argentina's senior national team, against Hungary. He was sent off minutes later for elbowing an opponent.