Lionel Messi
Forward/Attacking Midfielder · FC Barcelona
Topps Match Attax UEFA Champions League #438
Year & Era
2011-12 — Topps Match Attax Era
Card Type
Trophy Triumph (Insert/Subset)
Grade
Raw — Appears Excellent (approx. 5-6 range)
Rarity
Common insert; high print run as these were mass-distributed in retail packs across Europe.
Overall Assessment
A nostalgic mid-tier insert for fans of the 'GOAT' during his peak Barca years; ideal for player collectors rather than high-grade investors.
Condition Grade
Raw — Appears Excellent (approx. 5-6 range)
Centering Assessment
Front: Roughly 55/45 Top-Bottom, 50/50 Left-Right; reasonably well-centered for a gaming card.
Surface Condition
Visible edge wear and potential surface scratches; typical for 'Match Attax' gaming cards due to handling.
Corner Condition
Rounding and white wear visible on all four corners, particularly noticeable against the light blue and dark blue borders.
Edge Condition
Significant chipping and white 'nicks' along the right and bottom edges; edge wear is common for these card stocks.
Print Quality
High color saturation with a metallic/foil finish; iconic image of Messi with the 'Big Ears' trophy.
Estimated Value
$5 - $15 USD (Raw); significantly higher in a PSA 9 or 10, though this copy is unlikely to achieve those grades.
Comparison to Known Examples
Lower quality than typical 'Pack Fresh' examples; presence of corner whitening and edge chipping puts it below mint status.
Authentication Tips
Check for the official Topps logo and Champions League hologram on the reverse; feel for the specific thin card stock quality.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading unless for personal sentimental value, as the cost of grading exceeds the current market value of this specific copy.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; appears to be an authentic 2011-12 era Topps product.
Provenance Notes
Originally distributed in multipacks, starter packs, and foil boosters for the Match Attax trading card game.
Historical Context
Commemorates the 2011 UCL Final where Messi scored against Manchester United at Wembley, solidifying that Barcelona team as one of the greatest ever.
Market Trends
Stable; Messi collectibles remain the gold standard in soccer, though gaming cards (Match Attax) generally track lower than premium sets.
Investment Potential
Low long-term investment growth due to condition issues; high volume of these cards exists in the secondary market.
Similar Cards
2011-12 Panini Adrenalyn XL Messi, Topps Match Attax 100 Club Messi, 2011 Panini WCCF Messi.
Display & Preservation
Store in a PVC-free penny sleeve and top loader; the current binder storage offers moderate protection but allows for corner shifting.
Interesting Facts
The '438' on the card corresponds to the card number in the collection, and the stats (99 ATT) denote his maximum power in the game.