PSG superstar Lionel Messi could become football's most decorated player alongside Barcelona legend if he seals Ligue 1 title

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) superstar Lionel Messi has the chance to become the world's most decorated footballer alongside Barcelona legend Dani Alves. For that, he would need to win the Ligue 1 title this season.

The Parisians are well on course to become the French champions yet again this season. They have 81 points on the board from 35 games and lead the second-placed RC Lens by six points.

Messi has won 41 major trophies for his clubs and country during his career. He can match Alves' tally of 42 by winning the Ligue 1 this season. A FIFA World Cup, three UEFA Champions League titles, 10 La Liga titles, one Copa America trophy, and many more are among Messi's most notable achievements from his career.

In Neymar's absence, Lionel Messi, alongside Kylian Mbappe, has carried PSG's attack during the latter part of the season. The 35-year-old has scored 20 goals and has provided 19 assists in 38 matches across competitions this season.

Messi won the Ligue 1 during his first season in France. He looks set to do so in what could be his last season in the country.

PSG superstar Marquinhos spoke about Lionel Messi's criticism

Marquinhos and Messi

Lionel Messi has become the subject of the PSG fans' wrath in recent times. He has often been booed by the Parisian club's supporters. After the Argentine returned to action following his suspension due to the unauthorised Saudi Arabia trip, he was once again jeered.

Likewise, French pundits have often criticized the Argentine captain for the club's poor performances. Marquinhos, however, has come to Messi's defense. The central defender recently told L'Equipe:

"I always respect protests when they are peaceful, at the times and places where it is necessary. Above all, I ask the supporters not to target one player or another. It must always be collective. A player doesn't walk on his own, he's not going to do anything on his own."

Messi's time at the club, however, could come to an end in the summer. He is currently in the final months of his current deal and Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Argentine would leave after it expires.