### Free-Kicks Data: Messi Scores 5 This Season, King of Ligue 1

In the ever-evolving landscape of football, Lionel Messi continues to be the undisputed king of La Liga and the world. As the season unfolds, it's evident that Messi is not just a standout striker but also a master of free-kick artistry. In his fifth season with Barcelona, Messi has been instrumental in securing numerous goals from free kicks, cementing his status as one of the greatest free-kick specialists in history.

#### Messi's Free-Kick Career Milestones

- **2017/18**: Messi scored 4 free-kicks for Barcelona.

- **2018/19**: He added another 3, making it a total of 7.

- **2019/20**: Messi's tally increased to 10, marking a significant milestone in his career.

- **2020/21**: With the start of this season, Messi already had 12 free-kick goals for Barcelona.

- **2021/22**: As we write, Messi has scored a further 5 goals from free kicks, bringing his total to 17.

#### The Artistry Behind Messi's Free-Kicks

Messi's free-kicks are nothing short of breathtaking. His ability to control the ball, create space, and deliver pinpoint accuracy makes him one of the most feared attackers on the field. Here are some key aspects of his free-kick technique:

1. **Control**: Messi's touch is unparalleled. Whether he's controlling the ball in tight spaces or using his feet to dribble past defenders, he always manages to maintain possession.

2. **Vision**: He possesses exceptional vision, often seeing gaps between defenders and finding ways to exploit them. This allows him to deliver precise strikes into the goal.

3. **Power**: While not necessarily known for his physical strength, Messi uses his quick reflexes and powerful legs to generate momentum and power when delivering his free-kicks.

4. **Versatility**: From long-range shots to close-range finishes, Messi can adjust his free-kicks to fit any situation. This versatility adds to his appeal as a player.

#### Impact on La Liga

The high number of free-kick goals Messi scores each season has had a profound impact on La Liga. Not only does he provide scoring opportunities for his team but also helps break down defenses. His free-kick prowess has made him a threat at every corner of the pitch, often causing teams to double-team him in anticipation of a potential strike.

#### Future Prospects

With Messi continuing to dominate both domestically and internationally, it's clear that his free-kick skills will continue to influence the game for years to come. As he approaches his 36th birthday, Messi remains one of the most sought-after players in the world, and his contributions to La Liga will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the sport.

In conclusion, Lionel Messi's five free-kick goals this season highlight his dominance as one of the greatest strikers in football history. His ability to score from outside the box not only demonstrates his skill but also underscores his importance to both Barcelona and the league as a whole. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Messi's free-kick arsenal evolves and whether he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the beautiful game.