The Argentine captain Lionel Messi was yet again on the headlines on Saturday night after Barcelona humbled Mallorca at Camp Nou. The Laliga Champions are hopeful of hitting a treble this season after being able to win only the league last season. Ernesto Valderde's side were eliminated by Liverpool in the Champions league and also lost the Copa Del Rey to Valencia, thereby leaving them with only the League as a consolation. The new season resumed with calls from Barcelona fans, urging the Administration to sack Valverde, a request that seem to have been falling on deaf ears, especially after the Barca President made it clear that Valverde's sack was yet to be considered. With a rejuvenated Real Madrid Side who seem fired up by the return of Zidane, it's crystal clear that the magic of Messi is all Valverde may need to sail through the rising storm. Though fears of Messi's age have continued to raise concerns as regards his optimum performance, the Captain have continued to break new grounds and it seems he is getting better with age. Not too long ago, the Argentine wizard claimed his sixth Ballon d'Or award, making him the only player to have hit such milestone. Prior to that Prize, Messi and C.Ronaldo were on level as regards the Ballon d'Or, but after the Monday award night that took place in Paris, Leo emerged as the winner.
Many have continued to cast rumours of doubt as to whether he deserves it or not, basically Liverpool and Netherland fans whom sentiments with Van Dijk may have influenced their thought, but that's Normal, we're all humans. But then, the father of three and Laliga's most successful player sent a message across to the world against Mallorca, and that's it, "I'm coming for the 7th Ballon d'Or." Lionel Messi netted a hat trick against the visitors yesterday to take his goal tally to 12 so far, after missing out in Barcelona's first 6 games of the season. His three goals help Barcelona secure a 5-2 win over Mallorca, and most importantly maintain the top spot ahead of Madrid on goal difference. Both teams are currently sitting on 34 points each after 15 games so far, and I think the El Clasico will go a long way to determine who leads squarely. While Messi's rival Ronaldo seems to be dwindling in performance since leaving Madrid, there is every possibility that the Argentine captain may go on win more accolades in the future, as the likes of Mbappe, Hazard, Neymar etc. are still miles away from becoming a threat. It's so clear that Valverde's success is totally dependent on Messi's magic and a slip in form for Messi or injury could mark the end of the Catalan boss. Few days ago, it was Messi that secured the three points against a highly defensive Athletico Madrid side, and despite missing out on most games due to injury, he is already leading as the top scorer and five assists. He is still sublime and far from dwindling, his Lethal nature is still as though he is just starting. Never be unfortunate to play against him when he is in the mood, because he still owns the Space. Bravo!
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