Lionel Messi Tattoos: Placement And Hidden Meanings Revealed

Lionel Messi, who is widely known as the greatest footballer of all time, has a distinct way of expressing his personal journey. He is as great in his life outside the pitch as he is in the pitch. Throughout his career, the Argentine has adorned his body with a variety of tattoos that symbolize pivotal moments in his journey, from his family to his career milestones.

La Pulga’s tattoos are more than just body art. They are a deep reflection of his personality, passions, and beliefs. Every tattoo speaks of a story. While some of them are tributes to his loved ones, others represent his faith and journey to greatness.

How many tattoos does Lionel Messi have?

Speaking of Lionel Messi tattoos, as of 2025, there are over 20 of them in his body. These tattoos cover different parts of his body, including his legs, chest, back, and arm. They are a visual testament to the massive experiences, emotions, and people in Messi’s life. His ink speaks of a tale of his rise to fame, his deep bond with his family and his unwavering faith.

Lionel Messi’s Back Tattoos And Their Hidden Meanings

There’s a reason why fans go gaga on Lionel Messi back tattoo. The Argentine’s back features a few key tattoos that represent his beliefs and life:

Mother’s Portrait

On his left shoulder blade, the World Cup winner has a tattoo of his mother, Celia. This tribute is a powerful expression of his love and respect for the woman who played a pivotal role in his life. The portrait serves as a permanent reminder of the support she has always provided him both on and off the field.

Jesus Christ with Crown of Thorns

Another massive tattoo on Messi’s back is a depiction of Jesus Christ, wearing a crown of thorns. Located on his right shoulder, this tattoo is a clear reflection of Lionel Messi’s religious beliefs. It is a representation of his faith and reminder of the spiritual guidance that has been essential to him throughout his life and career.

Both of these tattoos on Messi’s back hold immense personal significance, reflecting his deep emotional ties to his family and his faith.

Lionel Messi’s Right Arm Tattoos Explained

The Argentine’s right arm showcases different tattoos that hold deep personal meaning, capturing different aspects of his life journey.

Eye and Crown

On the right bicep’s inside, Leo has an eye tattoo. The eye is often seen as a symbol of guidance and protection. Accompanying it is a small crown, which a lot believe symbolizes his bond with his wife Antonella Roccuzzo, and the royal-like status she holds in his life.

Lotus Flower

La Pulga also has a lotus flower tattooed on his bicep. The lotus is a symbol of growth, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. This tattoo might be interpreted as a reflection of Messi’s personal journey from his humble beginnings in Rosario, Argentina, to achieving global stardom.

Rose Window

Close to his elbow, Lionel Messi has a rose window tattooed on him. It is inspired by the Santa Maria del Pi church in Barcelona, which played a massive role in shaping his career. The intricate design of the rose window is a nod to the beauty of the city and the time Leo spent there, both on and off the pitch.

Timepiece Cogs

In Leo’s forearm, he has a tattoo of a classic pocket watch that is surrounded by timepiece cogs. This tattoo symbolizes the passage of time and might represent Messi’s recognition of the fleeting nature of his football career and the importance of making every moment count.

Lionel Messi’s Body Tattoos And Their Meanings

La Pulga’s body tattoos are scattered across different areas of his torso, each one of them telling a unique story.

Lips

Around the lower abs of Leo, he has a simple yet catchy tattoo of a lip in red. It is dedicated towards his wife Antonella Roccuzzo and their romance and bond.

Football and Number 10

The Argentine has a tattoo of a football along with the number 10, which is synonymous with his career. The tattoo represents his deep admiration for the game and his iconic association with the number 10 shirt throughout his career.

Lionel Messi’s Leg Tattoos

There’s a reason why ‘Lionel Messi leg tattoo’ is a highly searched term on the internet. These tattoos are something special.

Map of South America and Europe

Lionel Messi’s right leg features a map of South America and Europe, two continents that have played a big role in his life. This tattoo represents his journey from the roots in South America to the grandest stages in Europe, where he became a football icon.

Handprints of Thiago and Family Dates

On his left calf, Lionel Messi has the handprints of his son Thiago. Moreover, there are the birthdates of his wife and children, Antonella. This tattoo is a tribute to his family and marks the milestones of his children’s births, symbolizing how central they are to his life.

Lionel Messi’s Calf Tattoos

The Lionel Messi calf tattoo is famous among the fans. It represents the milestones of his personal life.

Birthdates of Family members

On his left calf, Messi has the birthdates of his wife and children, tattooed in Roman numerals. This ink is a way for Messi to carry his loved ones with him wherever he goes, showcasing how essential they are in his life.

These tattoos collectively form a powerful narrative of Messi’s life. Every one showcases a certain moment of time, capturing the essence of his journey, both personal and professional.