Epic Pictures to Develop Lionel Messi Biopic

Acclaimed author Luca Caioli has drawn on numerous exclusive interviews to tell Messi's hard-fought story, including his parents and extended family; his coaches at Grandoli and Newell's Old Boys; Rjikaard and Zambrotta from Barcelona; Jorge Valdano and many others from Argentina; as well as Manchester City's Pablo Zabaleta and ex-Chelsea defender Asier del Horno. Messi was the 2009 and 2010 FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) Player of the Year and has been anointed by football legend Maradona as successor to his No. 10 Argentina shirt. Ultimately, this is a ROCKY-style tale about a young boy from humble beginnings who overcomes his physical shortcomings to become one of the greatest players of all time. The book has been published in 32 countries in 31 languages and will have a reprinting later this year bringing Messi's story up to the present day.

"The goal is to make a powerful and positive film that will leave audiences feeling inspired to go after their dreams no matter how impossible they may seem," said Ewald.

"The amazing story of Lionel Messi will appeal to people both young and old. Audiences will be uplifted by this incredible tale of fighting for your dreams," said Berenson.