In December 2012, Lionel Messi achieved one of the most extraordinary records in football history: his 91st goal within a single calendar year with Barcelona.
However, when asked whether 2012 was the best year of his career, Messi smiled and gave a measured answer, far from any dry comparison of numbers.
“I don’t know, it’s difficult — it depends on how you look at it. I don’t like statistics; nowadays everything revolves around them.”
“I like to be very involved in the game. There have been years when we’ve won everything: reaching the Copa América final with the national team, winning the Champions League with Barcelona.”
“It’s difficult. In 2012 I scored around 91 goals. I don’t play for that; it has never interested me.”
“I’ve never had it in my mind to give an assist just to break a record or surpass someone else. It’s hard to choose a single year; fortunately, I’ve had many very good ones,” Messi added.
Even today, the record of 91 goals in a single year remains one of the most unbelievable achievements in modern football, but for Messi, it is just one part of an extraordinary career.
Messi is focused on staying in form with Inter Miami to prepare for the 2026 World Cup
