Man City move makes sense after Barca star reaches 500 games

Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Real Betis on Wednesday night usually wouldn’t attract too much attention, with the La Liga champions used to winning in dominating fashion.

However, this was a special evening for the Catalan club as Lionel Messi took to the field for his 500th game for the team he’s been at since he was 13.

The four-time Ballon d’Or winner celebrated this occasion by finding the net in the first half after linking up well with Neymar.

That was the Argentine’s 425th goal for his side, more than any other Barca player, and served as a reminder to just how much history he’s made at the Nou Camp.

The 28-year-old is the most prolific goal-getter in La Liga history, has found the net the most times in both a league season and a calendar year in Spain, as well as being the only person to win the Ballon d’Or four times.

On top of breaking all these records, Messi has also won seven league titles, the Copa Del Rey three times and four Champions League medals.

The only accolade that may be beyond him is becoming Barcelona’s all-time appearance leader, with Xavi currently leading the way on 767.

Messi has averaged just over 53 games a season over the last five campaigns, meaning he would need to play on for over five seasons to overtake the 35-year-old.

That would see Barca’s number ten approaching the age the current Al Sadd player is now and Argentina’s captain may find this difficult, especially if injury problems come up.

Therefore, with nothing left to achieve, Messi should make the rumours a reality and finally head to the Premier League.

Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United are seen as the most likely destination for the man regarded by many as the best in the world, but it is the Citizens that would be the best option for him.

Man City are the only one of that trio never to achieve European glory and leading them to their first Champions League crown would be a special feat.

Going to sides who already have continental accolades would see Messi become a special part of their history, but being the man who led Man City to the pinnacle of football would make him an icon at the Etihad.

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