Often considered the best player in the world and widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, Messi has won a record six Ballon d’Or awards and a record six European Golden Shoes. The Barcelona star’s perfect game techniques and calm composure have made him an opposition’s worst nightmare. Messi achieved these accolades by continuously performing to a ridiculously high standard. Here are a few reasons why he is the absolute best footballer of the decade.
Dribbling: The Argentinian is arguably still the best dribbler in the world, alongside new Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar. These two have so often fooled defenders, sending them the wrong way. As a matter of fact, Lionel Messi has completed the highest number of successful dribbles in Europe’s top 5 leagues since 2013/14.
Mentality: The Barcelona star has had years of glory at the top level and has been through all different types of moments that a footballer can experience. Messi has enough composure to retain his calmness during the big games, and not get lured into any sort of altercation with the opposition. Having won all possible cups, Messi maintains the hunger of a 20-year old with his impeccable attitude of never skipping training and trying to surpass himself every single season. Talent alone is not always enough, but when you merge footballing abilities with an excellent attitude, this is when you reach excellence.
Passing skills: Lionel Messi is an attacker, but that does not prevent him from being one of the best passers in the game. The Argentinian can organize play, lead the build-up phase, or even launch his teammates by setting them up with clear-cut chances in front of the goalkeeper. The Barcelona star is considered one of the best assist-providers in the world, at the moment.
Statistics: Being one of the best dribblers and passers in the world is nice and all, but unless you can back it up with stats, you hardly get the recognition you deserve in modern-day football. And Lionel Messi does just that. The Argentina national team’s captain was the leading goalscorer of La Liga last season, with 37 hits, alongside 9 assists. Whereas in the UEFA Champions League, the veteran was able to find the net 11 times, while providing 2 assists. However, Messi was involved in a total of 46 goals in league action, which is comfortably the best number in Europe’s top 5 leagues.
Certainly, Messi is one of a kind footballer.
