European XI of the Season for 2017/18

Forward: Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona)

The Argentine magician is a joy to watch

There is little more to say about Lionel Messi other than that we're truly blessed to witness such greatness. The Argentina international is capable of doing this that no other player in his generation can do.

When thinking about the best players of all time, names like Pele, Maradona, Beckenbauer, and Cruyff come to mind. Messi will most definitely join this discussion when his career has ended.

Each of the aforementioned players could rightfully call themselves the best player of their generation and Messi will join this list when people reflect on the greatness of his career.

However, a fantastic career and exceptional ability alone, don't warrant a place in Europe's Team of the Season. There is no question about La Pulga's impact on what was almost an invincible season at Barcelona.

The magician scored 34 goals in 35 appearances, adding 12 assists in the process. It speaks volumes that he has been voted 'Man of the Match' 22(!) times this season, whilst boasting an average rating of 8.73 from whoscored.com.

7 - Lionel Messi is the first player in La Liga history to score 30+ goals in seven different seasons. Stellar. pic.twitter.com/JyQFKnm4ie

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) April 29, 2018

It is no coincidence, that Barcelona's only loss of the season came when Messi wasn't in the squad. While conceding five goals may not have been directly impacted by the Argentine international, it is the fear he strikes into his opponents' eyes before the game even starts that impacts their style of play before the match even starts.

Messi's outstanding season doesn't only justify a spot in our European Team of the Season, but also further cements his place among the footballing legends that will be talked about in decades to come.

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Honourable Mention: Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

Admittedly, nobody could have taken Messi's place in this team, but Eden Hazard has performed extremely well for a struggling Chelsea side.

It remains to be seen whether the Belgian international will stay at the struggling Blues, but if he doesn't then any team in Europe will gladly add him to their squad.