The Argentina captain lit up the stage as Barcelona’s talisman and also set a few records along the way, including some that may never be surpassed.

Exactly ten years ago, Messi equalized and then eclipsed Telmo Zarra’s 251 goals in the 5-1 dismantling of Sevilla.

The Athletic Club legend’s feat had lasted for almost six decades until the serial Ballon d’Or winner picked up his second of the evening.

Messi extended his tally to 253 La Liga goals later by winning a hat-trick while he retired, seven years later, with a mammoth 474 goals to his name.

Only his former enemy Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo, has managed to come close to this figure, but he is still far behind with 311 goals.

Truly an extraordinary player.

David Ramos – 2014 Getty Images