Junior Messias, a name that might not have been familiar to many football fans a few years ago, has emerged as a captivating figure in the world of Italian football. His journey from relative obscurity to Serie A stardom is a testament to perseverance, talent, and a unique blend of skill and determination.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on May 13, 1991, in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Messias’s path to professional football was far from conventional. He spent his formative years playing futsal, a fast-paced indoor game that honed his technical skills and agility. However, his professional career began relatively late, with his senior debut not coming until 2012 at the age of 21.
A Late Bloomer Finds His Footing:
Messias’s early career saw him navigate through the lower leagues of Brazilian football, showcasing his talent but struggling to find consistent opportunities. He bounced around various clubs, facing challenges and setbacks along the way. However, he never lost sight of his dream of playing at the highest level.
The Italian Adventure:
In 2019, at the age of 28, Messias took a leap of faith, embarking on a new chapter in Italy. He joined Crotone, a club then playing in Serie B. This move proved to be a turning point in his career.
A Breakout Season and a Dream Move:
The 2020-21 season witnessed Messias’s explosive arrival on the Italian football scene. His impressive performances for Crotone, despite the team’s relegation from Serie A, caught the attention of several top clubs. Ultimately, it was AC Milan who secured his signature in the summer of 2021.
Life at AC Milan:
Joining a club with the stature of AC Milan was a significant step for Messias. He quickly endeared himself to the Rossoneri faithful with his tireless work ethic, impressive dribbling skills, and a knack for scoring crucial goals. His contributions were instrumental in Milan’s Serie A title triumph in the 2021-22 season, marking a historic moment in his career.
Playing Style and Key Attributes:
Messias is a versatile forward who can operate effectively on either wing or as a second striker. His playing style is characterized by:
Explosive Pace: Messias possesses exceptional speed and acceleration, allowing him to quickly turn defense into attack.
Technical Prowess: His dribbling skills are a standout feature, enabling him to weave past defenders and create scoring opportunities.
Clinical Finishing: Messias has a keen eye for goal and a knack for finding the back of the net with impressive finishes.
Tireless Work Ethic: His relentless running and pressing make him a valuable asset both offensively and defensively.
Impact on Italian Football:
Messias’s success story has had a significant impact on Italian football. He serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to achieving one’s dreams. His journey highlights the importance of perseverance, hard work, and seizing opportunities when they arise.
FAQs
What is Junior Messias’s background?
Junior Messias began his football journey in Brazil but moved to Italy in 2011 at the age of 20. Before turning professional, he worked various jobs, including delivering refrigerators and working on construction sites. He played for amateur teams in Turin during his free time.
How did Junior Messias start his professional football career?
Messias’s professional career began in the lower tiers of Italian football. In 2015, he joined Casale in the Eccellenza (fifth tier), where he scored 21 goals in 32 appearances. His impressive performance led to stints with Chieri and Gozzano, eventually reaching Serie C with Gozzano in the 2018–19 season.
When did Junior Messias make his Serie A debut?
After contributing to Crotone’s promotion to Serie A in the 2019–20 season, Messias made his Serie A debut with Crotone in the 2020–21 season. He scored his first Serie A goal on October 25, 2020, against Cagliari.
What notable achievements does Junior Messias have with AC Milan?
Messias joined AC Milan on loan in August 2021. He made a significant impact by scoring the winning goal against Atlético Madrid in a UEFA Champions League match on November 24, 2021. This goal was particularly remarkable as it came just a few years after he was working as a delivery driver.
What is Junior Messias’s current club?
As of January 2024, Junior Messias is a permanent player for Genoa CFC. He initially joined Genoa on loan from AC Milan in August 2023, with an obligation to buy upon certain conditions. These conditions were met in January 2024, finalizing his transfer.
Has Junior Messias faced any injuries?
Yes, in September 2024, Messias suffered an adductor injury, causing him to miss several matches, including a Coppa Italia derby against Sampdoria and a Serie A fixture against Juventus.
What position does Junior Messias play?
Messias primarily plays as a forward but is versatile across the attacking front. He has also been deployed as an attacking midfielder when needed.
What are some highlights of Junior Messias’s career?
Rise from Amateur to Professional: Messias’s journey from delivering appliances to playing in Serie A is a testament to his determination and talent.
Champions League Impact: Scoring the decisive goal for AC Milan against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League marked a pinnacle in his career.
Serie A Contribution: During his time with Crotone and AC Milan, Messias consistently showcased his skills, contributing crucial goals and assists.
How has Junior Messias’s journey inspired others?
Messias’s story is often highlighted as an inspiring example of perseverance. His transition from working as a delivery driver to scoring in the Champions League underscores the idea that with dedication and hard work, significant achievements are possible, regardless of one’s starting point.
What are Junior Messias’s future prospects?
Having secured a permanent move to Genoa CFC, Messias aims to continue contributing to his team’s success in Serie A. Overcoming recent injuries, he is focused on maintaining his form and playing a pivotal role in Genoa’s campaigns.
To conclude
Junior Messias’s journey from the amateur leagues of Italy to the grand stages of Serie A and the UEFA Champions League is nothing short of extraordinary. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination required to achieve one’s dreams. Facing numerous challenges, including working as a delivery driver and playing in lower-tier leagues, Messias never wavered in his pursuit of a professional football career.
His impactful performances, notably with AC Milan and now with Genoa CFC, highlight his adaptability and skill on the field. As he continues his professional journey, Messias remains a figure of inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide, exemplifying that with hard work, perseverance, and unwavering belief, one can overcome obstacles and reach the pinnacle of success.
For fans and followers, Junior Messias’s career trajectory offers a narrative of hope and motivation, illustrating that humble beginnings do not preclude monumental achievements. As he continues to make his mark in Serie A, the football world keenly watches the next chapters of his remarkable story.
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