At 37 years old, Lionel Messi continues to astonish the soccer world with his talent and scoring prowess as he wraps up the 2024 season. This year has been particularly unique for the Argentine forward, marking less activity than any year since his early career. Yet, far from being diminished by age or injury, Messi has demonstrated his ability to not just participate but to excel on the field.
Despite struggling with injuries, Messi’s statistical performance this year speaks volumes. He played 37 matches, scoring 32 goals, which gives him an impressive average of 0.864 goals per match. This performance has reignited admiration and respect for Messi, proving he remains one of the game's most lethal players. He found the net in 22 of those appearances, registering six doubles and three hat-tricks, showcasing his ability to perform even under physical pressures.
For Argentina, Messi also made significant contributions, scoring 9 goals across 12 matches, giving him an average of 0.75 goals per game. His performances for Inter Miami were even more impressive, where he hit the net 23 times in just 25 matches, lifting his average to 0.92 goals per match. With additional assists - four for Argentina and 13 for Inter Miami - Messi had a direct influence on 49 goals throughout the season.
Interestingly, even with these highs, Messi's performance cannot compare to his record-breaking year of 2012 when he scored 91 goals. The consistency of his previous campaigns, with more than 55 goals for several seasons, makes the current tally seem modest by comparison. Yet, the history of Messi's scoring, especially since 2018, reveals his staying power. He has consistently performed well, averaging higher than 0.8 goals per match each year since then, emphasizing his strength as he plays fewer games. For example, he recorded 51 goals across 54 appearances back in 2018.
This year, Messi's legacy has also been preserved through stories shared by those who know him best. A new book, Messi Intimo, penned by journalist Ariel Senosiain, offers readers fresh insights and personal anecdotes about the Argentinian star. It paints a portrait not just of Messi the athlete, but of Messi the person, illustrating moments from his childhood and the evolution of his relationships.
One of the touching stories highlights Messi's commitment to his family, showing him not just as the global superstar but as someone who values his roots and relationships. He moved to Miami to spend more time with his loved ones during this stage of his life. Amidst high-profile games and awards, Messi cherishes family moments, much like any individual who values their loved ones.
Messi’s remarkable ability does not merely rely on statistics or games won. It extends to how he interacts with those around him. Being from Rosario, the same city where his world-class talent blossomed, Messi has carried the spirit of his hometown through his career. Relationships formed early on—especially his long-standing bond with Antonela Roccuzzo—continue to have life alongside his soccer pursuits. The depth of their connection exemplifies how Messi's life outside sports shapes his image and informs the loyalty he signals to his fans.
Even as Messi’s illustrious career draws close to its inevitable conclusion, he remains active and impactful within the game, preparing for what may come next. With discussions about his potential retirement swirling, the world continues to keep its eyes on Messi. No matter what the future holds, his remarkable statistics, notable assists, and personal stories weave together to form the spellbinding legacy of one of football's true greats.
Despite any barriers time may place, Lionel Messi demonstrates with each game he plays and every goal he scores, the essence of excellence and persistence. He leaves us with the promise of showing us all what it means to rise above expectations, even at 37. Messi will continue to shine brightly on the world's largest stage as long as he dons the jersey, leading his teams with pride as he navigates through the seasons of his unmatched career.
