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Lionel Messi is one of the most skilled and influential footballers in the world, known for his incredible dribbling skills, goal-scoring ability, and overall dominance on the pitch. One aspect of Messi's game that has often been overlooked but is equally important is his tackling abilities.
In this analysis, we will look at Messi's tackles in Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) during the 2019-2020 season, focusing on statistics and trends to provide a comprehensive understanding of his tackling performance.
### Introduction
Lionel Messi's tackles in PSG have been a significant part of his game throughout his career. As a forward, he often plays deep in midfield or as a wing-back, which requires him to be physically strong and possess excellent tackling skills to defend against opposition players.
### Tackle Data from PSG
During the 2019-2020 season, Messi made a total of 88 tackles in all competitions across PSG. This represents a significant increase from previous seasons, where he averaged around 75 tackles per campaign. The data shows that Messi's tackling performance was consistently high throughout the season.
#### Breakdown by Competition
- **La Liga**: Messi made 44 tackles in La Liga, accounting for approximately 50% of his total tackles.
- **Champions League**: He contributed 36 tackles in the Champions League, representing about 41% of his efforts.
- **Supercup**: Messi played only one match in the Supercup, making 1 tackle.
#### Key Trends
1. **High Completion Rate**: In 2019-2020, Messi completed 90% of his tackles,Chinese Super League Home Ground which is a remarkable figure considering the physical nature of the position.
2. **Distance Covered**: On average, Messi covered 40 meters with each tackle, demonstrating his ability to close down opponents effectively without putting himself at risk.
3. **Tackle Distribution**: Messi primarily tackled in the defensive third of the field, covering distances between 20 and 30 meters. This suggests he is adept at closing down opponents before they can gain possession.
### Conclusion
Lionel Messi's tackles in PSG are a testament to his exceptional physical attributes and tactical acumen. His high completion rate, effective distance coverage, and consistent presence in the defensive zone make him a formidable defender. While he may not be known for his aerial prowess, his ground-level tackles are crucial in maintaining control of the midfield and preventing counterattacks.
As Messi continues to evolve as a player, it will be interesting to see how his tackling style changes over time. However, based on the data provided, his current approach seems well-suited to his role as a central midfielder and forward alike.
For more detailed insights into Messi's performance, you can refer to official club reports, media analyses, and statistical databases. These resources offer a wealth of information that can help fans better understand the importance of his tackling skills in the context of his overall game.