# Lionel Messi: PSG's Midfield Rating in the 2023-24 Season
The 2023-24 season has seen Lionel Messi take on a new role at Paris Saint-Germain, transitioning from his traditional position as a forward to a more central midfield role. This shift has sparked widespread debate among football fans and analysts, with many questioning whether Messi can maintain his elite-level performance in this new position.
So far, Messi has shown glimpses of his brilliance in midfield, demonstrating his exceptional vision, passing ability, and control. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create chances for his teammates has been a standout feature of his play. Despite being 36 years old, Messi continues to prove that he is one of the most technically gifted players in the world.
In terms of ratings, Messi has been consistently impressive, earning an average midfield rating of 8.2 out of 10 across his appearances this season. His passing accuracy has been remarkable, completing over 90% of his passes, while his key passes per game average 2.5. Additionally, he has contributed five goals and eight assists, showcasing his ability to influence the game in multiple ways.
However, some critics argue that Messi's defensive contributions have been limited, which is a key aspect of playing in midfield. His tackles per game average just 0.8, and he often relies on his teammates to cover defensively. While this is a concern, Messi's offensive prowess and creativity have often compensated for this weakness.
Overall, Messi's midfield rating this season reflects his continued importance to PSG. His ability to adapt to a new role and still perform at an elite level is a testament to his genius and dedication. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Messi continues to evolve in this position and whether he can lead PSG to further success.