5 legendary footballers who have shown signs of decline in 2021

#3 Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Ibrahimovic continues to suffer from injury woes.

AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is another veteran goalscorer whose game-changing abilities seem to be on the wane.

The Swede seems to be losing his battle with injuries these days. He couldn't participate in the European Championship in the summer because of a knee problem. He has also missed a whopping ten games already this season due to fitness issues.

Ibrahimovic has made 15 appearances for AC Milan across competitions this season, contributing seven goals and two assists. It is worth noting that all his efforts in front of goal have come in Serie A.

The legendary striker is struggling to make his impact felt, especially in the big games. He failed to make any tangible contributions in the Champions League as Milan finished fourth.

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#2 Cristiano Ronaldo

Norwich City vs Manchester United Premier League

Cristiano Ronaldo sealed a sensational return to Manchester United this summer. The Portuguese forward has rescued the Red Devils with a number of vital late goals this season. However, his overall impact has dropped significantly, especially in big games.

Ronaldo was helpless as Liverpool humiliated Manchester United 5-0 at Old Trafford in October. He also fired blanks against Manchester City, Chelsea, Leicester City and Aston Villa.

Ronaldo's reputation as a big-game player is taking a dent. Gone are the days when he would single-handedly tear opposition defenses apart with his sharp dribbling skills and sheer pace. These days, he spends most of his time ambling in the penalty box, waiting for opportunities to pounce on. It goes without mentioning that his lack of pressing has cost the team significantly this season.

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#1 Lionel Messi

Another legendary figure who has shown signs of slowing down recently

Lionel Messi has endured a difficult time since joining Paris Saint-Germain from Barcelona this summer. The Argentine's spell in the French capital has left a lot to be desired. He has especially struggled in the French top flight, scoring just once in ten games.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner has had a better outing in the Champions League though, scoring five times in as many games.