Ballon d'Or: 3 reasons why Lionel Messi is already the firm favourite to win the award

#2 Profound Impact

FC Barcelona v Rayo Vallecano de Madrid - La Liga

To say that Lionel Messi's impact cannot be merely measured by statistics will be an understatement. He is leading the Blaugrana on the pitch by dictating the game and swaying the matches in Barcelona's favour whenever his team needs him the most.

Messi's recent exploits against Sevilla, Lyon and Real Betis in the last few weeks depicts his importance and impact in the squad. Last night, Barcelona were not dominating possession against Betis as they usually do but Messi's brilliance was enough to separate the two teams by a large margin.

The Argentine genius equalized twice in his hat-trick against Sevilla to finally give them the 4-2 win. In the Champions League 2nd leg against Lyon, Messi scored and provided assists in quick succession to kill the tie.

There are countless examples of his jaw-dropping brilliance over the season and his performances is a testament to the fact that his impact is matched by none in this season so far.