5 Players that defined the last decade of FC Barcelona

#1 Lionel Messi

Messi vs arch-nemesis and rival Sergio Ramos

Was there ever a doubt that someone else would make the top of this list. For all their contributions, no one can stake claim to this throne the way Lionel Messi can. He is and will remain Barcelona's greatest ever player and an undeniable part of their rich legacy.

The most essential part of this list, Lionel Messi made his Barcelona senior debut on 16th November 2003 in a friendly. Since then he has amassed over 600 club goals in all competitions to be considered by many to be the greatest footballer to ever lace up his boots. Messi represents the Barcelona philosophy better than anyone else and he deserves to be on the top of this list.

A mercurial dribbler, with unbelievable acceleration and control, Messi has routinely dismantled opposition defenses with his speed and accuracy. His close control, touch and shot are the best in what is a talented and deep Barcelona side. He has also become a sublime free kick taker.

What makes Messi stand out is his performances on the biggest stages. Whether it be his four goals vs Arsenal in the Champions league, or his solo wonder goal vs Real Madrid in the Champions league semi-final, all of his stand out performances have come against the highest levels of competition.

For a person of his stature he scored the winning goal against Manchester United in the Champions league final from a header.

While the contributions of the other players on this list can not be belittled, Messi stands alone at the apex and remains the msot important player in Barcelona's history.