Lionel Messi has played deeper this season and also substantially increased the number of balls won back per 90 minutes.

Messi is averaging 3.0 balls won per 90 minutes, up from 1.5 in 13-14 and 1.0 in 12-13.

During the 11-12 season, Messi averaged 1.5 balls won per 90 minutes and 1.7 in 10-11.