Lionel Messi Nets Record-Breaking Goal For Barcelona; Scripts History Once Again [Watch]

Lionel Messi netted a record-breaking goal in FC Barcelona’s 3-0 win over Valladolid in the La Liga Tuesday. It was Messi’s 664th goal for Barcelona and with that, the Argentinean broke Pele’s record of netting most goals for a single club.

In Barcelona’s 2-2 draw against Valencia Saturday, Messi had equaled Pele’s record of scoring the most number of goals for one club. The Brazilian scored 663 goals for Santos during his decorated playing career.

Messi netted the third goal in Barcelona’s away victory against Valladolid at Jose Zorrilla Stadium. He collected Pedri's backheel, took a touch before putting the ball past goalkeeper Jordi Masip. Messi was also involved in the opening goal of the match. His cross was headed in the goal by Clement Lenglet.

The Barcelona skipper started the move of the second goal, which was netted in by Martin Braithwaite. Messi, 33, could have made it 4-0 in injury time, but his shot only managed to hit the post. Even Philippe Coutinho, who came off the bench, had a chance, but Valladolid’s shot-stopper Masip made some fine saves.

In the 2020-21 season, Messi has had a slow start in terms of scoring goals as the six-time Ballon d’Or winner has only managed to score 10 goals and provide five assists in as many as 18 competitive appearances.

In the summer of 2020, Messi wanted to leave Barcelona but failed to part ways because the club was firm that his release clause of $834 million had to be met. In an interview recently, Messi admitted that his failed attempt to leave his childhood club has affected his form this season. But, he also added that even though Barcelona are ongoing a “difficult” period, he is “excited” to fight for titles.

"I dragged everything into the start of the season a bit. The truth is right now I'm feeling fine, but in the summer I had a very bad time. Right now I'm feeling good and looking forward to fighting for every competition we have ahead. I know the club is in a difficult moment at an institutional level and on the pitch and everything surrounding Barca right now is difficult, but I'm feeling excited," said Messi.

A 17-year-old Messi scored his maiden senior goal for Barcelona in 2005 and never looked back from thereon. The Argentina national has gone on to win 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies among many other laurels he has secured with the Catalans.

His current contract with the club is due to expire at the end of 2020-21 and he’ll be able to negotiate with other clubs at the upcoming transfer window, starting Jan. 1, 2021.