FC 24 90 Lionel Messi Player Review

From one living legend to the next, we move on to the most recent addition to the MLS Retirement Plan in the Argentinian Magician, Lionel Messi.  After a rather tumultuous time at PSG the start to Messi’s Inter Miami career has been the stuff of Hollywood movies as he continues to provide those moments of magic.   

Unlike CR7, Messi received a relatively unchanged card from FIFA 23 into EAFC24 outside of some minor downgrades.  If anything the addition of the PlayStyles Plus TECHNICAL Ball Control may have even progressed this card in strength at the outset of this game cycle compared to last year.  In fact with the LENGTHY meta at the start of FIFA 23, the likes of Messi did fall to the wayside temporarily.

Similar to Ronaldo it was a stretch to get Messi situated into the squad on a decent chemistry, but once that was taken care of it was straight into Division Rivals gameplay, testing out the much talked about 4-4-2 formation.  Messi was tasked with leading the line and therefore the HUNTER chemistry style seemed like the best choice to get the job done.

Messi proved to be provider and finisher throughout the review in the following squad:

Overall 

17 goals and 6 assists in only 7 matches (one 0-0 quit on the stats picture) is about as potent as you can get… add in the fact that Division 6 Rivals feels like a gladiator arena and it looks even more impressive.  Messi has the lot, and it all translates into goals, assists and a generally enjoyable experience.

Main Statistics – Dribbling

Pace Rating: 9/10

Dribbling Rating: 9/10

Skills: ★★★★

PlayStyles: Technical Plus, Quick Step

If you haven’t tried controlled dribbling in FC24 then you are missing out on one of the OP attacking techniques currently in the game.  The ability to keep the ball touch tight while moving at pace causes defenders endless issues.  But of course with Messi (and a select few players) the TECHNICAL PLUS allow Messi to continue at a higher pace while using controlled dribbling.  It is incredibly fun and Messi-esque in operation.

The 95 ACCELERATION plus the QUICK STEP PlayStyle is yet another weapon at your disposal and if it weren’t for the 82 SPRINT SPEED and 4 STAR SKILLS I am not sure how anyone stops this card in front of goal. 

Value/Coins

Value/Coins: 5/5

Quite expensive at the outset of the game.  Of course the initial crash has currently dropped Messi to about 210k, but he is easily worth every coin from a dribbling standpoint alone.  Honestly the biggest issue comes again from the links which cause issues and some possible weaknesses in the squad.  

Good vs. Bad 

Good vs Bad Rating: 5/5

As was just pointed out this card has enough strength from a dribbling standpoint to warrant a solid rating, but once you weave your way into the correct positions… Messi can deliver the final ball as well.

+ The Shooting was solid throughout the review and the HUNTER Chem Style certainly contributed to that.  The 97 FINISHING is incredibly lethal and is only aided by the FINESSE SHOT & TRIVELA PlayStyles.  The 4 STAR WEAK FOOT is not the best and contributed to a few missed chances.

+ Similarly the Passing was just as reliable and the 92 VISION, 91 SHORT PASSING & 90 LONG PASSING are again boosted by the INCISIVE PASS PlayStyle.  

While the negatives were far outweighed by the positives, there were still a few issues to note.

- The size of Messi is always going to be the source of both the good and bad attributes that the card possesses.  Despite the ability to perform those iconic mazey runs and the general responsiveness and agility while dribbling, any defender who did come in contact with Messi was rewarded with possession in the end.  The 68 STRENGTH was all but useless and in general you are not winning anything in the air with this card.

Closing Words

Until they decide to nerf controlled dribbling, or boost the agility of jockeying with defenders, the likes of Messi can literally run riot all over the start of this game cycle.  In my mind I love the uniqueness of PlayStyles and hope it continues, but you never know.  Regardless, Messi was about as entertaining as any player I have used in FC24 so far… Not to mention that nearly every statistical category comes with a PlayStyle boost to enhance the performance.  This card is unreal and would highly recommend giving it a try, or at least looking for cheaper options with the TECHNICAL PLUS PlayStyle.   

Hoping you are well.  Cheers for reading.