Lionel Messi, one of the most celebrated footballers of all time, has achieved unparalleled success throughout his illustrious career. With over 1,000 first-team games for club and country, Messi’s legacy is cemented by an impressive collection of records and milestones that have set new standards in world football. As he transitions from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami CF, let’s delve into the incredible records held by this footballing icon.
Messi’s UEFA Champions League Achievements
Lionel Messi’s dominance in the UEFA Champions League is unmatched. He has won the prestigious tournament four times with FC Barcelona (2006, 2009, 2011, and 2015). Messi holds multiple records in the competition:
- Most Champions League Group Stage Goals: 80 goals (71 with Barcelona).
- Most Goals in the Round of 16: 29 goals.
- Most Champions League Goals for One Club: 120 goals with Barcelona.
- Most Consecutive Seasons Scoring in the Champions League: 18 seasons.
Messi’s La Liga Records
Messi’s tenure in La Liga is filled with record-breaking achievements that highlight his consistent brilliance:
- Most La Liga Goals: 474 goals.
- Most Goals in a Single La Liga Season: 50 goals in 2011/12.
- Most La Liga Hat-Tricks: 36 hat-tricks.
- Most La Liga Titles Won by a Foreign Player: 10 titles.
Messi’s Individual Honors and Awards
Lionel Messi has been recognized globally for his individual brilliance, earning multiple awards that set him apart from his peers:
- Most Ballon d’Or Awards: 8 titles (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023).
- Most European Golden Shoes: 6 awards (2009/10, 2011/12, 2012/13, 2016/17, 2017/18, 2018/19).
- The Best FIFA Men’s Player: 4 titles (2009, 2019, 2022, 2023).
Messi’s International Records with Argentina
On the international stage, Messi has been equally formidable, leading Argentina to glory and setting numerous records:
- Most Caps for Argentina: 178 caps.
- Most Goals for Argentina: 106 goals.
- Most World Cup Appearances: 26 matches.
- First Argentine Player to Score in Four Separate World Cup Tournaments
- Only Player to Score in Every Stage of a World Cup (Group Stage, Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, and Final).
Messi also played a pivotal role in Argentina’s victories at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 Copa América, and the 2022 Finalissima, further solidifying his status as a football legend.
Messi’s Club Titles and Achievements
Throughout his club career, Messi has won numerous titles across different competitions:
- Champions League Titles: 4 (2005/06, 2008/09, 2010/11, 2014/15).
- La Liga Titles: 10 with Barcelona.
- FIFA Club World Cup Titles: 3.
- Spanish Cup (Copa del Rey): 7 titles.
- French League Titles: 2 with Paris Saint-Germain.
- Leagues Cup 2023 Champion: With Inter Miami CF
Lionel Messi’s footballing career is a testament to his extraordinary talent, hard work, and dedication. With a vast array of records and achievements, he continues to inspire millions of fans worldwide. As he embarks on a new chapter with Inter Miami CF, the football world eagerly anticipates what more this legend will accomplish.
Also Read – Cristiano Ronaldo Receives Special UEFA Award as Champions League All-Time Top Scorer
