Lionel Messi: A Paris Saint-Germain legend
The Argentine, who was crowned world champion with his national team this season, is leaving Paris at the end of the current season. Leo Messi now joins the ranks of those who have entered into Paris Saint-Germain legend.
A legend who continues to write his legend. Lionel Messi has left his mark on the history of Paris Saint-Germain for a number of reasons and, as you would expect, La Pulga has left an indelible mark on the history of football.
A new life for the man who spent almost his entire career at Barcelona, winning everything in his path. It's a new life that he has been groping his way through, during a first season that would be crowned with his first French league title - the tenth in the club's history - and the Ballon d'Or - his seventh - a unique achievement that is likely to remain etched in stone.
The following season saw a double consecration, with the 11th title won by the capital club, an historic title that made Les Rouge et Bleu the absolute kings of France. The title was also won thanks to Messi, whose impressive tally of 21 goals in all competitions, and 16 assists in Ligue 1 alone, made him the club leader for goal involvements. The Argentine was crowned the league's assists leader this season, taking the baton from team-mate Kylian Mbappé, who won the award last year. Messi is also joint-assists leader in Europe's top five leagues this season, on par with Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City).
Messi also fulfilled the ultimate dream of winning the World Cup with his country, and becoming a hero for eternity thanks to a trophy won in the middle of the season against his Paris Saint-Germain team-mate Kylian Mbappé in a memorable final.
Leo brought the Parc des Princes to its feet with his vision, his acceleration and his technique, always accurate and deadly. His marvellous left foot got the better of so many goalkeepers, and it's hard not to remember that last-second free-kick against Lille, in a memorable match that saw Paris win 4-3 after a white-knuckle finish.
It was a story that ended with yet another title - the club's 46th and Messi's 43rd - making him one of the most successful players in the history of football.