When Leo Messi signed for the MLS, after his bad experience in Paris (2022-24), many around the world were suspicious of his decision, turning it into a desire to retire to a minor League, in their consideration.
Four years later, and at 39 years old, the absolute and relative data speak of a Messi in perfect condition, with good physical data (at his own pace, obviously), and with a performance that very few (due to ignorance due to not seeing the MLS or for other reasons) did not guess.
Messi on his photo with Lamine: “It’s crazy”
Aside from the general figures, one surprising fact in the post-match against England was that in the semi-finals Messi equaled the nine dribbles completed in a match, which was his record in a World Cup match. He had already done them against Iceland in 2018 (at the age of 30) and against Germany in 2010 (at the age of 23).
Another fact that impresses at 39, Leo has scored or assisted in 13 consecutive matches for his club (Inter M;imai) or National Team. It is the second longest streak of his entire career after a 14-game streak in 2011.
With the last two games remaining, Leo is the Golden Boot of the tournament with eight goals, the same as the Frenchman but more assists than the Frenchman. Erling Haaland was left with seven), while Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have six goals.
Messi also got close to the impossible scoring record of the Frenchman Just Fontaine, who scored 13 goals in a single World Cup. A feat in just six games played during the 1958 World Cup in Sweden. This historical record is still in force.
In general figures in his six World Cups, Leo has 33 games played (more than anyone) and 22 goals scored (more than anyone), although Mbappé is stalking him with 20 goals in 22 games in only three World Cups and 27 years old.
