Champions League memory: Messi’s jersey sold at historic price

PNN News Desk

The long-standing football rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has now spilled off the field into memorabilia auctions. A match-worn Lionel Messi jersey from Chelsea legend John Terry’s personal collection was sold at a record price, surpassing the value of a Ronaldo jersey.

The auction, conducted by US-based Goldin Auctions, featured over 50 memorabilia items collected by Terry during his playing career. Among these, Messi’s jersey drew the most attention.

According to international sports media, Messi’s jersey, worn during the 2006 UEFA Champions League match between Chelsea and Barcelona, sold for USD 183,000—approximately BDT 22.5 million. In the same auction, Ronaldo’s Manchester United jersey sold for USD 115,900, roughly BDT 14.2 million, leaving Ronaldo behind by nearly BDT 8.3 million in auction value.

Terry reminisced on social media that Messi wore a rare orange kit at Stamford Bridge, seldom used by Barcelona. As a defender, Terry stayed close to Messi throughout the match and moved closer at the end to exchange jerseys. This historic jersey is now listed as the fourth highest-selling jersey in football history.

Other legendary players’ memorabilia were also auctioned, including a Thierry Henry Arsenal jersey from a 2003 match against Chelsea, which sold for USD 93,820.