Throwback Video Shows Young Leo Messi Boldly Predicting His ‘World Champion’ Ambition

• Lionel Messi 'completed football' when he inspired Argentina to a third World Cup title in Qatar
• The PSG playmaker achieved his lifelong dream in 2022 after five attempts
• After winning the World Cup, Messi has been touted as the greatest footballer of all-time

Old footage of Lionel Messi speaking about his lofty ambitions back in 2007 has resurfaced after claiming the best men's player prize at the 2022 The Best FIFA Football Awards.

The Argentine genius realized his lifelong ambition of becoming a world champion when he inspired La Albiceleste to a third Mundial trophy on his fifth attempt.

His triumph has since cemented his position among the pantheons of football greats, with many touting him as the finest ever to have ever graced the sport, per FOX Sports.

At age 35, Messi is ageing like fine wine and is in good standing to annex a record-extending eighth Ballon d'Or prize, according to GOAL Power rankings.

Watch Kylian Mbappe's heart melting reaction after Messi was announced as FIFA The Best Men's Player

Football

Following his recent crowning as the best player on the globe, an old clip dating August 2007 has been making the rounds on the internet.

In the video, seen by Sports Brief, Messi, wearing a shy face, outlined his ambitions as a footballer during an interview.

When asked about his dream in football, the then-19-year-old said: "In football, obviously, I want to be a world champion."

Below is the interview:

Messi crowned world's best player

Lionel Messi was crowned the 2022 FIFA Best Player of the Year at the awards ceremony held in Paris, France, on Monday, February 27, Sports Brief reported.

The legendary Argentina forward beat Paris Saint Germain teammate Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid star Karim Benzema to win the top award.

Why David Alaba voted for Lionel Messi ahead of Karim Benzema explained

Football

The 35-year-old, who was winning the award for the second time, dedicated the accolade to his teammates for helping him realize his long-time dream.

Mbappe makes U-turn on GOAT debate

Meanwhile, Leo Messi's Paris Saint-Germain teammate Kylian Mbappe has appeared to change tune on who is football's greatest of all time between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The debate on who is the better player between the two football icons remains divided among fans, pundits, and even footballers.

Mbappe is one such player who has previously waded into the debate and has been known to be a huge admirer of Ronaldo.