Lionel Messi's unseen World Cup brilliance is showcased in fascinating Twitter thread

Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph was achieved thanks to the contributions of many key players.

From Emiliano Martinez's penalty heroics, to Julian Alvarez's tireless work-rate, it was a victory earned through teamwork...and the brilliance of the side's special number 10.

Lionel Messi's seven goals - as well as his mesmeric assists - may have courted the most attention during the World Cup, but it was the 35-year-old's incredible football IQ that caught the internet's attention this week.

Seemingly unable switch out of World Cup mode just yet, one Twitter user has uploaded a compilation to the social media site which showcases exactly why so many regard Messi as the greatest footballer to ever walk the earth.

After all, so much of what the true greats do isn't even related to sheer athletic ability - but through their awareness and game IQ on the biggest stages of all. As you might expect, Messi delivered - and then some - in Qatar.

Check the thread out for yourself below.

Documenting some of the more unsung aspects of Messi's play during Argentina's World Cup Final victory over France, the thread is certainly a fascinating read.

As @BeYourBest_pro points out, it is the way Messi "scans" everyone on the pitch that stands out as much as anything.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward can be seen constantly checking his surroundings for the runs of teammates, as well as the positioning of opposing defenders.

All in all, Messi 'scanned' the pitch 676 times during the game.

The scanning wasn't in vain either, as according to the threat's creator, Messi was often progressive with the ball after completing so called 'critical scans' of the pitch.

Described as the final scan a player makes as the ball is travelling towards them, it requires both composure and football IQ to be thinking about your next move before the ball even reached you.

In Messi's case, such multi-tasking is light work, as many of the clips show.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner would go on to score twice in what has since been heralded as the greatest World Cup Final of the modern era.

With the game level at 3-3 after 120 minutes, penalties would be the deciding factor between Argentina and France, with the South Americans prevailing after Gonzalo Montiel's winning spot-kick.

For Messi, it's the crowning glory of a glittering career, as he finally adds the Jules Rimet trophy to his burgeoning collection which already includes a Copa America title, four Champions League trophies and countless domestic league titles.

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