Lionel Messi may be the most admired footballer on Earth, but behind the global superstar is a close-knit Argentine family that has shaped his life since the beginning. While the world knows Messi’s story—from Rosario’s streets to World Cup glory—much less is known about the people who grew up alongside him: his two brothers and his only sister. Each has taken a very different path, some finding stability in business, others facing controversy, and some building careers of their own.
Here is a complete look at what happened to Messi’s siblings and where they are today.
Rodrigo Messi: The Strategic Elder Brother Working Behind the Scenes
The eldest sibling, Rodrigo Messi, born in 1980, has always been the quiet strategist in the family. As Lionel’s career took off in Barcelona, Rodrigo became instrumental in managing the early commercial and logistical aspects of Messi’s brand. Although not a public figure, he earned a reputation as the reliable brother who helped stabilize the family’s business operations while Leo focused solely on football.
Today, Rodrigo largely divides his time between Barcelona and Rosario, continuing to support various Messi family ventures. He avoids media attention, rarely gives interviews, and remains one of the most discreet members of the Messi household.
Matías Messi: The Controversial Brother Who Struggled With Public Scrutiny
Born in 1982, Matías Messi is the sibling who most often found himself in the headlines—and not for football. Over the years, Matías faced several legal issues, including firearm possession cases, traffic incidents, and confrontations that brought unwanted attention to the Messi family.
Despite this turbulent history, Lionel has never publicly turned his back on him. Still, Matías’ controversial moments often overshadowed his attempts to enter small business ventures or contribute to family projects.
A notable incident occurred in 2023 when he claimed Messi had “made Barcelona famous,” a statement that caused public backlash. He later apologised.
Today, Matías lives in Rosario, staying low-profile and close to his parents while distancing himself from the spotlight.
María Sol Messi: The Only Sister and the Family’s Social Media Star
Born in 1993, María Sol Messi is the youngest of the siblings and the only sister. Unlike her brothers, she embraced the public eye through social media, quickly becoming an influencer with a large following. Known for her fashion sense, beauty content, and glimpses into the Messi family’s private moments, she has developed a lifestyle brand of her own.
María Sol is extremely close to Lionel and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo. She often travels with the family, appearing in events, brand campaigns, and personal gatherings. Today, she splits her time between Barcelona, Rosario, and Miami, contributing to fashion-related projects and maintaining her online presence.
A Family That Stayed United Despite Global Fame
The Messi family is built on simplicity, strong values, and unwavering loyalty—traits instilled by parents Jorge and Celia. Even after Lionel became the world’s most recognizable footballer, his siblings remained the warm, grounding force that kept him connected to his roots.
Here’s a quick snapshot:SiblingRole / ReputationWhere They Are NowRodrigo Messi Business support, brand coordination Living between Spain & Argentina, low profile Matías Messi Known for controversies and legal issues Living quietly in Rosario María Sol Messi Influencer, fashion personality Travels between Barcelona, Rosario & Miami
Their stories differ, but together they form the emotional backbone of Lionel Messi’s extraordinary life. While Leo shines on the world stage, his siblings continue to play crucial roles—some quietly, some dramatically, and some creatively—behind the scenes.
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