# Lionel Messi Pass Success Rate at Paris Saint-Germain: A Statistical Analysis
## Introduction
Lionel Messi's time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) was marked by exceptional performances and a remarkable ability to influence games at the highest level. One of the key aspects of Messi's game that stood out during his tenure in Paris was his pass success rate. This statistical analysis delves into Messi's pass success rate at PSG and explores its implications on his gameplay and the team's performance.
## Messi's Pass Success Rate at PSG
During his three seasons at PSG, Lionel Messi averaged a pass success rate of **85.3%**, according to Opta statistics. This rate is significantly higher than his career average of approximately **87.3%** across all competitions, indicating that playing in Ligue 1 and adapting to the tactical requirements of PSG's style of play slightly impacted his pass accuracy.
## Messi as a Playmaker
Messi's ability to act as a playmaker was a defining feature of his game at PSG. His pass success rate was particularly noteworthy in the final third of the field, where he consistently found teammates in advanced positions. Messi's ability to split defenses with precise through balls and incisive one-twos made him a nightmare for opposing defenders. His passing accuracy was also evident in the number of key passes he made, which directly led to goals for his teammates.
## Challenges and Adaptations
Despite his high pass success rate, Messi faced unique challenges at PSG. The physical demands of Ligue 1, combined with the tactical demands of Mauricio Pochettino's system, required Messi to adapt his game. This adaptation included a greater emphasis on retaining possession and using his body to shield the ball, which slightly reduced his pass success rate compared to his career average. However, Messi's ability to adjust his game while maintaining his creative brilliance was a testament to his versatility as a footballer.
## Impact on PSG
Messi's passing prowess had a profound impact on PSG's attacking gameplay. His ability to dissect defenses with precision allowed his teammates, such as Kylian Mbappé and Neymar, to exploit defensive gaps and create scoring opportunities. Messi's vision and creativity also transformed PSG into a more fluid and dangerous attacking force, culminating in multiple Ligue 1 titles and a Champions League victory in 2020-2021.
## Conclusion
Lionel Messi's pass success rate at Paris Saint-Germain was slightly lower than his career average, but this did not diminish his status as one of the most influential players in football history. His ability to adapt to the demands of Ligue 1 while maintaining his creative brilliance underscores the unique qualities that made him a legend of the game. As PSG look to build on the legacy Messi left behind, his passing legacy will undoubtedly remain a defining feature of his time in Paris.