On April 7, 2001, Messi finally saw his name on the official team sheet. He stared at it for a long time, making sure it wouldn't disappear. After months of waiting, he was finally going to play.

In the dressing room, a coach handed him a jersey. 'You're wearing this today,' he said. It was the number 9 shirt. Messi touched the fabric gently, then quickly pulled it on. He was ready.

The match began, and the wait was finally over. When a chance appeared, Messi darted forward and pushed the ball into the net. He had scored his first official goal for Barcelona!

Messi was still catching his breath when his teammates piled on top of him. They cheered and slapped his back. All those lonely weekends spent waiting were finally worth it.

After the game, Messi walked with his father, Jorge. 'At least you've played now,' Jorge said. Messi swung his bag over his shoulder. 'Still have to keep going,' he replied firmly.

The next match started well, but everything changed in an instant. Messi landed awkwardly after a challenge, and a sharp pain shot through his leg. He tried to walk, but he couldn't.

People ran over to help. Messi clenched his teeth and shook his head when they asked if he was okay. He had a fractured bone. He was carried off the field, his heart heavy with disappointment.

A week later, Messi was on crutches. He had to sit in the stands and watch his teammates play. The pitch felt impossibly far away. He hated being forced to stop.

During warm-ups, his teammates would look up and wave. After the games, they asked how he was doing. 'Fine,' Messi always answered, though his eyes never left the field.

One day, Messi turned to his father. 'When can I run again?' he asked. Jorge didn't tell any lies. 'First, get the injury healed,' he said. Messi watched the empty field in silence.

Finally, the day came. Messi walked back onto the training ground. People watched him closely. 'Slow down,' someone called out. Messi nudged the ball gently. 'I know,' he said.

But on the very next touch, he was already chasing after it. He was back. Now, he would prove that his road to greatness would not break so easily a second time.