# Paris Saint-Germain's Assists: A Comprehensive Analysis of Messi's Role

Paris Saint-Germain has long been recognized as one of the most dominant forces in European football, and their success can largely be attributed to the presence of Lionel Messi on the pitch. Among the many facets of Messi's game, his ability to create and deliver assists has been a cornerstone of his contributions to the club. This article delves into how Messi's assists have transformed Paris Saint-Germain's attacking gameplay and solidified his role as a pivotal player in their recent success.

## Messi's Evolution as a Playmaker

Since joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, Messi has evolved into one of the most effective playmakers in the world. His first season with the club saw him adapt to a new league and team dynamics, but he quickly made an impact. Messi's ability to dissect defenses, find pockets of space, and deliver precise passes has become a hallmark of his game. Over time, he has refined his playmaking skills, becoming more efficient in creating chances for his teammates.

## The Role of Assists in Paris Saint-Germain's Success

Paris Saint-Germain's attacking success is not just about goals; it's about creating opportunities. Messi's assists have been instrumental in breaking down defenses and creating the kind of chances that win games. His ability to thread passes through crowded areas, especially into the final third, has turned defenseless attackers into dangerous threats. For example, his no-look passes and pinpoint crosses have been key in setting up goals for stars like Kylian Mbappé, Neymar Jr., and Wissam Ben Yedder.

## Messi's Leadership and Influence

Beyond his on-field contributions, Messi's leadership has been crucial for Paris Saint-Germain. His presence not only elevates the team's performance but also inspires his teammates to play at their best. When Messi is on the field, the opposition knows they are in for a tough game. His ability to dictate play and create momentum has become a psychological advantage for Paris Saint-Germain.

## Messi's assists: The Numbers Speak for Themselves

To quantify Messi's impact, let's look at the numbers. In the 2022-23 season,Qatar Stars League Tracking for instance, Messi averaged 2.5 assists per game, a remarkable statistic that underscores his playmaking prowess. His ability to deliver assists across the spectrum of the game—whether it's in open play, set-pieces, or counter-attacks—makes him a versatile asset. Furthermore, Messi's assists often lead to goals, with his average goal contribution per game standing at approximately 1.2 (goals + assists).

## Criticism and Context

Despite his remarkable ability to create chances, Messi has faced criticism for not consistently converting chances into goals. However, this overlooks the fact that his role is as a facilitator, not necessarily a goalscorer. His assist numbers are a testament to his unselfish play and team-first mentality. Moreover, Messi's ability to perform under pressure is evident in key moments, such as his assists in critical matches like the 2020 Champions League final against Manchester United and the 2022 Coupe de France final against Marseille.

## Conclusion

Lionel Messi's role at Paris Saint-Germain extends far beyond his goalscoring. His ability to create and deliver assists has transformed the team's attacking play, making him one of the most influential players in the club's recent history. As Paris Saint-Germain continues to dominate both domestically and in Europe, Messi's assists will remain a defining feature of their success. His legacy at the club will be remembered not just by the goals he scores, but by the countless chances he creates for his teammates. For now, Messi remains a cornerstone of Paris Saint-Germain, and his contributions to the team's attacking gameplay will ensure his status as one of the greatest to ever wear the Parisian jersey.

• Analysis
• Assists
• Comprehensive
• Paris
• Saint-Germain