4 reasons why Lionel Messi could never win the Ballon d'Or again

#2 Lionel Messi's international performances

Germany v Argentina: 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final

The stick that is often used to beat Lionel Messi with is Argentina's poor performances on the international stage, and Messi's apparent inability to help them win an international trophy.

The comparison between Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona often boils down to this simple fact; Maradona led Argentina to World Cup success, while the best Lionel Messi could do was take them to the FIFA World Cup final in 2014.

🇦🇷 Lionel Messi is the only man to register an assist in 4 #WorldCup tournaments, brilliantly setting up Hernan Crespo for his first at Germany 2006. What an exhilarating talent 'La Pulga Atomica' was at 18 years old 🧙‍♂️ https://t.co/0kzg8bpFvo pic.twitter.com/pinlD2PGTV

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) May 9, 2021

Football is a team sport, except when it comes to Lionel Messi. Having said that, Argentina's quality of performances since that World Cup have declined, and they have a tough job in their hands of winning an international trophy before Messi calls it a day.

The Argentina national team will take part in the Copa America this summer, and a subpar tournament could seal Messi's legacy on the international stage.

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#1 Barcelona's current form

FC Barcelona v Atletico de Madrid - La Liga Santander

When Lionel Messi announced his decision to leave Barcelona last summer, it was met with shock and surprise.

Barcelona had recently been embarrassed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals, and several controversies loomed over the club. Despite Lionel Messi's announcement, the move did not happen and he continues to captain Barcelona to this day.

However, Barcelona are currently 3rd in La Liga, four points behind league leaders Atletico Madrid with two games to go. They were knocked out of the Champions League in the Round of 16 by Paris Saint-Germain and it is clear that the club will need some time and proper investment if they are to return to their glory days.

Barcelona have won 8️⃣ of La Liga's past 1️⃣2️⃣ titles.They've never finished lower than second over that span.They're third right now 😬 pic.twitter.com/GGdqjdSibR

— Goal (@goal) May 14, 2021

Lionel Messi's contract with Barcelona expires in the summer and he has been heavily linked with a move to Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. In recent weeks though, there have been reports that the Argentine was willing to sign a new deal with his beloved club.

Barcelona have some good young players but they will need to splash the cash to buy established names. Given Barcelona's financial situation, it seems unlikely. It will be interesting to see what Lionel Messi does in this transfer window.

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