5 Alternative Factors That Show Why Lionel Messi Is Arguably The Greatest Ever Footballer

#4 Ability to play well in multiple positions

Messi can occupy any attacking position on a football field

Messi’s debut position on the football field was on the right side in a front three that had Ronaldinho and Henrik Larsson. He played mostly on the right for the first few years, as he formed an excellent attacking partnership with Samuel Eto'o.

He played mostly as a 'False 9' under Pep Guardiola and garnered huge success. When Luis Enrique took charge, he deployed Messi on the right flank, with Luis Suarez taking the no.10 role. He often used Messi as a Central Attacking Midfielder (CAM) as well.

He played as a striker in Valverde's 4-4-2 formation and often comes deep to influence the game.

"He's the best in the world in every position," Luis Enrique said, "If he plays as a number 9, a number 8 or a number 6, he's the best in the world. Given how easily he shifted positions on a football field and succeeded in all of the roles."