The narrative of Lionel Messi’s career is one of perpetual challenge and evolution, as depicted through his myriad of opponents across different eras:

2007: Messi’s rivalry with Kaka
2008: Messi’s duel with Cristiano Ronaldo
2009: Messi’s ongoing battle with Cristiano Ronaldo
2010: Messi’s competition with Xavi
2011: Messi’s intense rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo continues
2012: The Messi vs. Cristiano saga persists
2013: Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue their relentless rivalry
2014: The Messi-Cristiano rivalry remains at the forefront
2015: The Messi vs. Cristiano rivalry intensifies
2016: Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to dominate the scene
2017: The Messi vs. Cristiano rivalry reaches new heights
2019: Messi faces off against Van Dijk
2021: Messi’s duel with Lewandowski
2022: Messi’s clash with Mbappe
2023: Messi’s confrontation with Haaland

Through these encounters, Messi has proven himself as the greatest of all time, navigating through different adversaries across various generations. Despite his greatness, Messi remains humble, letting his performances on the field speak for themselves. At 36 years old, he continues to dominate the beautiful game like no other, an enduring testament to his unparalleled skill and longevity.