Lionel Messi's midfield rating at Al Hilal: A comparison to Benzema
# Lionel Messi's Midfield Rating at Al Hilal: A Comparison to Benzema
## Introduction
Lionel Messi’s move to Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League has sparked intense debate among football fans worldwide. While Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, his role at Al Hilal has raised questions about his adaptability, particularly in midfield. This article compares Messi’s midfield rating to that of Karim Benzema, another high-profile striker-turned-midfielder in the Saudi league, to assess their performances and impact on their respective teams.
## Messi’s Midfield Rating at Al Hilal
Since joining Al Hilal, Messi has occasionally been deployed in a midfield role, showcasing his ability to dictate play and create chances. His vision, dribbling, and passing range have been instrumental in breaking down defenses. However, his lack of defensive contribution and physicality in midfield has raised concerns about his suitability for the position. While Messi’s creativity shines, his midfield rating is lower than expected due to his limited defensive work rate.
## Benzema’s Midfield Role at Al Ittihad
Karim Benzema,Primeira Liga Tracking on the other hand, has seamlessly transitioned into a midfield role at Al Ittihad. Known for his intelligence and technical ability, Benzema has excelled in linking play and controlling the tempo of the game. His experience as a striker has allowed him to make intelligent runs and finish chances, giving him an edge over traditional midfielders. Benzema’s midfield rating is higher than Messi’s, as he balances creativity with defensive responsibility.
## Comparison and Conclusion
While both Messi and Benzema have adapted to midfield roles in the Saudi Pro League, their approaches differ. Messi’s midfield contributions are more focused on creativity, while Benzema offers a more balanced performance. Ultimately, Benzema’s versatility and defensive awareness give him a higher midfield rating compared to Messi. However, Messi’s sheer brilliance in attack ensures he remains a vital asset for Al Hilal. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how both players continue to evolve in their new roles.
