Why Messi Is The GOAT of Football: 11 Reasons Explained

In the world of football, legends are born, records are shattered, and debates rage endlessly about who truly deserves the coveted title of the Greatest of All Time, or simply, the GOAT. While the annals of football history have witnessed remarkable talents grace the pitch, there is one name that consistently rises above the rest, casting a long and indelible shadow: Lionel Messi. In this article, we will delve deep into the heart of the matter and explore why Messi is undeniably the GOAT of football, leaving no room for doubt or debate.

From his unparalleled skills and countless accolades to his unwavering impact on the sport, we will paint a compelling portrait of the Argentine maestro’s undeniable claim to the throne of footballing greatness.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to journey through the mesmerizing world of football, where we unravel the story of why Messi reigns supreme as the GOAT.

11 Reasons Why Messi Is The GOAT of Football

1. 7 Ballon d’Or Titles

Lionel Messi’s seven Ballon d’Or titles are a testament to his sustained excellence in the sport. He won his first Ballon d’Or in 2009 and continued to capture the award in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.

This remarkable achievement underscores his consistency in being recognized as the best player in the world over the span of more than a decade. To put this in perspective, no other player has won the Ballon d’Or more than five times.

It is important to note that Messi is on course to win the 8th Ballon d’Or title come October 2023, potentially beating off Erling Haaland.

2. 6 Golden Shoes

The Golden Shoe is awarded to the top goal-scorer in European leagues. Messi’s six Golden Shoes (2010, 2012, 2013, 2017, 2018, and 2019) emphasize his incredible goal-scoring prowess.

These awards demonstrate not only his ability to score consistently but also his versatility in adapting to various styles of play in different leagues.

3. 34 Major Trophies with FC Barcelona

Messi’s time at Barcelona was defined by an unprecedented level of success. During his tenure, the club won numerous major trophies, including 10 La Liga titles and 4 UEFA Champions League titles. This sustained dominance is a reflection of Messi’s role as the linchpin of one of the most successful club sides in history.

4. 91 Goals in a Calendar Year

In 2012, Messi set a historic record by scoring 91 goals in a single calendar year, surpassing Gerd Muller’s previous record of 85 goals in 1972. This feat showcases his incredible consistency and ability to perform at an elite level throughout an entire year.

5. 5 UEFA Champions League Titles

Messi’s five UEFA Champions League titles (2006, 2009, 2011, 2015, and 2021) are a testament to his influence in the highest echelons of club football. His performances in these tournaments have consistently elevated Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to elite status.

6. 672 Goals for FC Barcelona

Messi’s 672 goals for Barcelona solidify his status as the club’s all-time leading scorer. These goals were not just numbers; they were moments of brilliance that often decided crucial matches, underlining his impact on the field.

7. Most Goals in a Single European Club Season

Messi’s 73 goals in the 2011-2012 season set a record that may stand the test of time. This staggering goal tally showcases his ability to find the back of the net with unprecedented consistency.

8. 4 European Golden Shoes in a Row

Winning the European Golden Shoe four times in a row (2010, 2012, 2013, and 2014) demonstrates why Messi is the GOAT of football. During this remarkable period, Messi scored an astonishing number of goals:

In the 2009-2010 season, he netted 34 goals in La Liga.
In the 2011-2012 season, he scored an astounding 50 goals in La Liga, a feat that remains a record.
In the 2012-2013 season, Messi continued his goal-scoring spree with 46 goals in La Liga.
In the 2013-2014 season, he once again topped the charts with 28 goals in La Liga.

This unprecedented consistency in goal-scoring at the highest level of European competition sets Messi apart as the greatest.

9. Most Assists in La Liga History

Messi’s playmaking abilities complement his goal-scoring prowess, solidifying his status as the GOAT of football. He holds the record for the most assists in La Liga history, with an impressive total of 193 assists.

This record showcases his well-rounded contribution to his team’s success. Messi’s ability to not only score but also create scoring opportunities for his teammates highlights his versatility and impact on the game.

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10. Top Scorer in UEFA Champions League History

Why Messi is the GOAT of football becomes abundantly clear when we consider his record as the all-time top scorer in the UEFA Champions League. Messi had surpassed the 120-goal mark in this prestigious competition, further solidifying his legacy.

His consistency in finding the back of the net against the best club teams in Europe over an extended period demonstrates his ability to perform at the highest level consistently. This achievement places him ahead of other legendary players in the history of the competition.

11. International Success

While the 2022 World Cup was in the future as of my last update, Messi’s role in leading Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa America is a pivotal moment in his career and a key reason why he is the GOAT of football. This victory was his first major international trophy with the national team, and it addressed one of the few remaining criticisms of his legacy.

It’s important to note that other great players like Diego Maradona have also led their countries to success. However, Messi’s Copa America triumph showcases his ability to excel on the international stage, further enhancing his claim to the title of the greatest footballer of all time. This achievement cemented his status as a footballing legend, aligning him with the likes of Maradona and Pele in the pantheon of football greats.

Conclusion

People often argue about who the greatest player of all time is. But when we look at the facts, it’s easy to see why Messi is the GOAT of football.

Messi’s ability to score goals consistently in top European competitions, like winning the European Golden Shoe four times in a row, shows just how amazing he is at finding the back of the net. He’s also the top scorer ever in the UEFA Champions League, proving he can perform at the highest level.

And let’s not forget his big win with Argentina in the 2021 Copa America. This showed that he could shine on the international stage too, something some people doubted before.

So, when you add it all up, Messi’s records, his awards, and his skills make him the GOAT of football.

Let’s appreciate the chance to watch Messi play and be inspired by his incredible talent. It’s possible we might never see another player like him in football.