Recently, Barcelona defeated Espanyol with a score of 5-0 at home at Nou Camp. In particular, Messi had a hat-trick for himself. Thanks to that, his number of goals in the Catalan derbies has increased to 20, including 18 in La Liga.
After the defeat to Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup, Messi has gradually regained his best form. He has scored 6 goals in the last 5 official matches. This achievement could be further enhanced if he did not hit the crossbar and post of Real Betis' goal 3 times in round 1 of La Liga.
In the 2016-17 season, Messi won the "European Golden Boot" for the fourth time in his career. This title will be in M10's hands before Christmas. If he continues to maintain his current scoring efficiency, the fifth title will not be too far away from Messi's reach.
When Luis Suarez was injured in the first 2 rounds, Ousmane Dembele made his first appearance in the third round, Gerard Deulofeu had to gradually adapt to life at Barcelona, Messi became the focus of the team's attacks at Nou Camp.
In the last 5 official matches, Barcelona head coach - Ernesto Valverde has experimented with many different tactical systems. However, he always prioritizes placing the Argentine superstar in positions that threaten the opponent's defense.
Up to now, perhaps Messi has convinced coach Valverde to take him from a position that requires a wide movement into football as a false nine. If the former Athletic Bilbao head coach continues to keep Messi in the central area, near the opponent's penalty area, it will be interesting to wait and see where Luis Suarez will play and how he plays.
