It's been said that Lionel Messi's performance levels have dropped this season but his statistics would suggest it isn't the case.
After setting up Ousmane Dembele with a precise pass in behind for the opener against Sevilla, Messi struck his 24th goal of the season in a 2-0 win.
Not only did it continue his ridiculous record against Sevilla, it means the six-time Ballon d'Or winner has now been involved in 30+ goals for the 13th consecutive season.
Messi did initially start the season rather slowly by his lofty standards but his form in 2021 has been nothing short of sublime. He's now scored in every one of his last nine games in La Liga and the Champions League since January 6.
In total, the 33-year-old has 14 goals and four assists in all competitions since the turn of the year - completing dispelling the myth that he's slowing down at this late stage of his incredible career.
No player in Europe's top five leagues has scored more goals this year than Messi.
Advert
Considering he's not playing in a great Barcelona side and there's been constant speculation surrounding his future, it's not bad at all for a player who is supposedly "not at his best" this term.
Ahead of the meeting at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan today, Sevilla manager Julen Lopetegui, who previously managed Real Madrid, showered Messi with the highest possible praise.
"Barca has, without any doubt, the best player in history: Leo Messi," the former Spain boss said.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football, Barcelona, Lionel Messi, Champions League, La Liga
