# Total Tackles by Messi at Paris Saint-Germain: A Statistical Breakdown

When Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021, football fans and analysts alike were eager to see how the Argentine maestro would adapt to the French league. One aspect of Messi's play that has often gone unnoticed is his tackling ability. This article delves into the total tackles made by Messi during his tenure at PSG, offering a statistical breakdown that reveals his defensive contributions.

## Early Impact and Tackling Numbers

Upon his arrival, Messi quickly established himself as an integral part of the PSG team. Despite being primarily a forward, Messi's tackling statistics show that he is not one to shy away from defensive duties. In his first season alone, Messi made a remarkable 45 tackles, which placed him 4th on the team's tackle leaderboard.

## Season-by-Season Analysis

### 2021-2022 Season

In the 2021-2022 season, Messi made 45 tackles, which, as mentioned, was the fourth-most on the team. This number is particularly impressive considering the fact that Messi only played 35 matches due to various injuries.

### 2022-2023 Season

The following season saw Messi increase his tackling tally, making 52 tackles in 38 appearances. This marked an increase of 7 tackles from the previous season, indicating a slight uptick in his defensive contributions.

### 2023-2024 Season (so far)

As of the end of November 2023, Messi has made 36 tackles in 20 appearances. This pace suggests that he will likely surpass his tackle count from the previous season, further solidifying his role as a versatile player for PSG.

## Conclusion

While Messi is renowned for his attacking prowess, his tackling statistics highlight a lesser-known aspect of his game. With a total of 133 tackles in less than two seasons at PSG, it is clear that the Argentine icon is not just a goal-scoring machine but also a defensive force. As he continues to evolve and adapt to the team's needs, expect Messi's tackling numbers to remain a vital part of his statistical profile at PSG.