Lionel Messi’s PSG plight involves a shocking situation.
The Barcelona legend has the second-worst shot conversion rate in Europe’s top five divisions – one goal from 44 attempts.
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Only Manchester City full-back Joo Cancello is a less successful finisher than the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, having netted one of his 46 Premier League shots.
World-class attackers are expected to convert almost one in four attempts.
And of course Messi’s dribbling and passing skills mean he is as famous as he is for his goals.
But the 34-year-old’s form – and arguably his mood – has dipped since his summer switch from Nou Camp.
It is claimed that he is unhappy with the playing style of the fledgling Ligue 1 leaders led by Mauricio Pochettino.
Messi proved his sixth assist of the Ligue 1 campaign as he subbed in a 4-0 loss to Reims on Sunday.
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But after struggling to overcome early-season injuries, it is really only in the Champions League where he has replicated his Barca influence
Messi has scored five goals in the same number of matches in Europe’s top domestic tournaments.
He was back in Spain this week for Nu Camp manager Xavi’s birthday, no doubt sparking magical memories of his connection as a teammate.
Messi declined to comment on recent talks about rejoining Barcelona.
But if his all-rounder level doesn’t improve, there is no doubt that PSG will be happy to see him leave for the summer.
However, Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has no doubt that Messi will turn his French fortunes around.
France World Cup winner said: “How is Messi not succeeding?”
“It’s just time to adapt, because he hasn’t scored many goals.
“But watch what he does on the pitch. In any case, you can’t criticize the kind of player who criticizes Messi, he doesn’t understand anything about football.”
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