Lionel Messi provides clear reason why he walks when he doesn’t have the ball during games in massive revelation to critics

Inter Miami and Argentina maestro Lionel Messi has opened up on why he walks on the pitch when he's not in possession of the ball during matches. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner explained that he does it to analyze the positioning of his opponents and figure out how to get past his marker and launch attacks.

Walking during games has been a trademark move of Lionel Messi for many years - so much so that it's been a topic for discussion.

During an interview with Clank! on YouTube, the iconic forward opened up about his movement.

"When I walk, I analyze the positioning of the opponent, how we are positioned when we don't have the ball," the Inter Miami superstar explained.

"I'm always attentive to marking assignments, tracking those who are left unmarked. I try to get away from my marker, mentally stepping out of the game to be well-positioned if we regain possession or to have extra time to start a counterattack or play. I study how the opponent sets up when they are attacking," he added.

Lionel Messi's intelligence and ability to study the game is second to none. The Argentine sees what others can't see and can basically tell where every player is positioned on the pitch with just a few glances - a quality that puts him in a class of his own.

That said, today (June 24) is a special day in the life of Lionel Messi as the FIFA World Cup winner celebrates his 37th birthday today.

Lionel Messi's numbers this season

Lionel Messi is showing no signs of slowing down this season. The 37-year-old entered the new campaign with Inter Miami in decent form, scoring goals for fun and mesmerizing the fans with his magical performances.

So far, he's recorded 14 goals and 11 assists to his name in 15 appearances for Inter Miami across all competitions. That includes 12 goals and nine assists in 12 MLS games, as well as two goals and as many assists in the matches in the CONCACAF Champions League.

The forward is currently on international duty with Argentina in the Copa America and already bagged an assist as La Albiceleste beat Canada 2-0 in their opening fixture. Up next, Lionel Scaloni's men will take on Chile in their second group-stage game on Tuesday (June 25).