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Note that Messi is, at times, criticised for not playing defence which means more effort running back and forth. He is definitely doing the right thing when at

• sleavey 8y ago
  Barcelona have built their team around him for the past 10 years. As their most important attacking asset, he's has the least responsibility to defend.
  • hcayless 8y ago
    Worth noting too that he can probably stretch the defense out just because he’s Messi. As a defender you’d be a fool to take your eyes off him.
  • samsonradu 8y ago
    It doesn't really work like that. Everyone has the responsibility to do their best in the context of the team. If one is more capable he does more, there's no passing responsibility at this level and there is no preferential treatment. Everyone has to do everything in their power to help the team. When Barcelona was in its prime shape and Messi was scoring/helping score more than Barcelona's defence could take on it was ok. When the team does not win and you did not give all, it's a problem isn't it? Of course this is just a superficial comment and take it with some salt, I have no clue what goes on the pitch, it might also be that he cannot sustain a full 90min and be productive attacking while also doing a degree of defense.
• JetSpiegel 8y ago
  With his build (short and skinny), he is pretty crappy at defence. He would only waste energy running back and forth without return on investment.
  • samsonradu 8y ago
    Short yes, so his head game is not that good but he is not skinny, he is quite muscular and strong. Attacking isn’t easy either, he is (was) one of the most fouled players in La Liga and he still scored a ton.