Champions League: Five against Man City already

Messi's superior record against English teams

If there is anything English clubs should have learned in the last decade or so, it is that they have every reason to be fearful once Barcelona star Lionel Messi is named on the team sheet.

Indeed, the Argentinian international has shown that he has a knack of playing at his best whilst representing the Blaugrana against their English rivals.

And the stats tell the story of his dominance.

On the 25 occasions that he has lined up against English teams, Messi has scored a total of 16 goals.

Of the worst performing English sides, Arsenal is at the top of the list with Arsene Wenger's men having conceded nine goals in total from six matches, including four goals against the Gunners in the knockout stages back in 2010.

Next is Manchester City, their rivals on Tuesday evening, who have conceded five goals in as many matches against La Pulga.

Then there's Manchester United - Messi's two goals helping Barcelona claim Champions League victories in Rome in 2009 and at Wembley Stadium in 2011.

"In this dressing room, there is no egotism. We enjoy playing together and work to win," Messi recently told The Sun.

Despite his superior individual record, City will have to contend with more than just Messi though if they are to snatch the three points on offer on Tuesday.

Source: