3 things Lionel Messi would want to achieve this year

#3 To be the leader at times of need

Nigeria v Argentina: Group D - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia

Often, Lionel Messi has been the subject of criticisms from all-time greats like Diego Maradona and Pele. While Pele's recent criticisms about Messi being a 'one skill player' is absolutely unjust, Maradona's continuous criticism about Messi's mentality seems to be harming the confidence and morale of the current Argentine great.

Known for his soft-spoken and humble nature, Lionel Messi is a gentleman. He is not the player who will shout or get into a fight in a football match. There are criticisms about his good boy presence but it's also true that starlets beside him are light years behind him in terms of ability.

Despite the huge burden of expectations of carrying an entire country to glory, Leo Messi remains unfazed and will begin the year from scratch. He will try to lead both his country and club not through words but through effective actions which can change the game as well as the mindset of players.