One, two, three... Messi is more prolific in front of goal than ever Barcelona Scores every 3.5 shots

Lionel Messi has very little competition when it comes to statistics, so it's easier to compare him with himself.

The numbers show that the Barcelona captain has been more efficient in front of goal this season than at any point in his career.

His hat-trick against Celta Vigo saw him score three goals - one penalty and two freekicks - with just five shots.

In LaLiga Santander, Messi has scored a goal every 3.5 shots this season - his lowest ratio in the last decade.

Messi's effectiveness in the last 10 seasons Season 2018/2019, 171 (Total shots) 4.75 (average), 36 (Goles) Season 2017/2018, 197 (Total shots) 5.79 (average), 34 (Goals) Season 2016/2017, 179 (Total shots) 4.84 (average), 37 (Goals) Season 2015/2016, 158 (Total shots) 6.08 (average), 26 (Goals) Season 2014/2015, 187 (Total shots) 4.35 (average), 43 (Goals) Season 2013/2014, 160 (Total shots) 5.71 (average), 28 (Goals) Season 2012/2013, 163 (Total shots) 3.54 (average), 46 (Goals) Season 2011/2012, 202 (Total shots) 4.04 (average), 50 (Goals) Season 2010/2011, 150 (Total shots) 4.84 (average), 31 (Goals) Season 2009/2010, 163 (Total shots) 4.79 (average), 34 (Goals)

As for freekicks, Messi is the master of those, scoring four out of the 10 he's taken in LaLiga Santander this season, giving him a 40 percent success rate.

"It's a skill he's mastered to perfection," Ernesto Valverde said about Messi's freekick abilities.