From World Cup Kits to Napkins: Messi's Most Valuable Collectibles

Lionel Messi made history during his illustrious career, but his recent announcement of retirement from the Argentine national team is a reminder that there is only a finite amount of history left to make. Messi is nearing the end.

For fans, there are pieces of Messi's history that can be touched: autographs, cards, kits — and the famous napkin that sealed his first contract with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi collectibles napkin World Cup kits

The napkin: football's most famous contract

In 2000, a teenager from Rosario signed his first contract with FC Barcelona on a paper napkin. That napkin was sold at auction in 2024 for over £800,000.

The buyer was the Argentine-Spanish collector Marcelo Ordiz. The napkin is framed alongside the subsequent formal contract. It is the most valuable football document in the world.

Messi World Cup 2022 jersey memorabilia Argentina

World Cup kits: the most coveted memorabilia

Argentina's kits from the 2022 and 2026 World Cups are highly sought-after items. A shirt signed by Messi after the 2022 title sold for over £1.5 million.

Messi napkin first contract memorabilia signed

“Messi memorabilia represents the closing of an era. Each piece is a part of football’s greatest history.”— Analysis of GOAL, Messi collectibles

Who are these pieces for?

Messi collectibles aren't for everyone—the prices are prohibitive for the average fan. But the secondary market offers more affordable options: cards, posters, and signed training memorabilia.

For museums, serious collectors, or investment funds, Messi memorabilia is an asset class that appreciates over time. The player's death diminishes its value.