The recent crowning of Lionel Messi with his eighth Ballon d'Or has ignited debates and discussions across the footballing world. As the headlines question the fairness of the decision, it's crucial to delve into the statistics and performances that underline Messi's claim to the prestigious award.
First, lets get things straight
Lionel Messi's 2022/23 season was nothing short of spectacular. Securing the World Cup, Ligue 1, and Trophee des Champions with stellar performances, Messi displayed a consistency and impact that few could rival. Additionally, Messi's contribution to Argentina's World Cup triumph is a story etched in footballing history. From being named Man of the Match in five out of seven matches to becoming the first player to score in every stage of the tournament, Messi's influence was unparalleled.
And lets not forget, Messi winning the Golden Ball for the second time in his career, Messi became the first player EVER to achieve this feat. The award, given to the best player in the World Cup, underscores Messi's dominance on the grandest stage of international football.
And of course, Messi's performances in the Champions League during the 2022-23 season were nothing short of exceptional. Topping the WhoScored average match ratings with an impressive 7.86, he outshone every other player in the competition.
Domestically speaking, Messi's impact was felt profoundly. His 197 shot-creating actions and 35 goal-creating actions for PSG, the highest in Europe, showcase his creativity and ability to influence outcomes.
Now lets talk Stats:
Messi's successful completion of 102 take-ons in domestic football, with a success rate of 55.4%, speaks volumes about his technical prowess and ability to maneuver through opposition defenses. Nevertheless, leading Europe's top five leagues in assists for the 2022-23 season, Messi contributed 16 assists in Ligue 1 alone. His expected assists (xA) were higher than any other player, emphasizing his role as a playmaking maestro.
Averaging a goal contribution every 89 minutes for PSG, Messi's overall tally of 21 goals and 20 assists across all competitions further solidifies his claim to the Ballon d'Or.
Conclusion
While debates surrounding the fairness of the Ballon d'Or decision may persist, a meticulous examination of Messi's performances in the 2022-23 season reveals a footballing genius at the height of his powers. Rigged or not, Messi's achievements, records, and impact on the pitch undeniably position him as the best candidate for the prestigious award. As the footballing world contemplates the intricacies of this debate, one fact remains clear: Messi's excellence continues to redefine the standards of the beautiful game.
Source: Planet Football