Topics: Lionel Messi, Barcelona, Real Madrid, La Liga
As fans honored what was the beginning of a legendary career, the 27-year-old Argentine took to Facebook to express his gratitude in a heartfelt message

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi took to Facebook to post a heartfelt thank you message to all his fans and supporters on the 10 year anniversary of his Barcelona debut.

On October 16, 2004, the then Blaugrana boss Frank Rijkaard handed a 17-year-old attacker by the name of Lionel Messi his first game in the Catalan giants' famous red and blue jersey in a clash with Espanyol.

Fast forward to 2014, 434 appearances later, the Albiceleste captain has become one of the greatest players in La Liga histroy, forever cementing his status as a Barcelona legend at the age of 27.

Messi is the club's all-time leading goalscorer, is only three goals shy of becoming the Spanish Primera Division's record goalscorer, holds the title of most goals in a calendar year at 86, has won a record number of Ballon d'Or titles, at four, and became the first player to ever win the award four consecutive years.

Then there is the little thing of most number of goals in the heated El Clasico tie with bitter rivals Real Madrid, with a record 21 strikes past Los Blancos.

MILESTONE! Ten years ago today, Lionel Messi made his Barca debut 

Lionel Messi, who is gearing up to face Eibar on Saturday before October 25's higly-anticipated Santiago Bernabeu encounter with Carlo Ancelotti's men, wrote: “I want to say thanks to all my family, friends, teammates and FC Barcelona staff for their support in these 10 incredible years. I've always enjoyed being on the pitch, wearing these colours, living amazing moments and I'm constantly trying to improve and win more titles with my team. A hug for everyone!” 

 
Post by Leo Messi.