La Liga: 2016-17 Team of the Season: Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico dominate

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MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 23: Lionel Messi of Barcelona runs with the ball during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Bernabeu on April 23, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images) /

FW – Lionel Messi – Barcelona

Even when Barcelona looked to be defeated or completely out of a match this season, there were many occasions when the Blaugrana were able to reverse their fortunes and find victory. At the heart of this undying spirit was the mercurial Lionel Messi leading the charge.

The Argentine magician led La Liga in 2016-17 with 37 goals, along with nine assists to help keep Barcelona in the title race until the bitter end.

Barca’s historic comeback against Paris Saint-Germain featured key contributions from Messi, but it was this year’s El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu that may be the most memorable.

In the final moments of a 2-2 match that seemed destined for a draw, it was Messi’s strike in stoppage-time that launched their push for the league championship forward.

One of the most accomplished players of all-time, the 29-year-old makes the impossible appear routine on a weekly basis. This past campaign was clearly no exception.

Next: Manchester United star will snub Barcelona

Manager Luis Enrique will depart the Camp Nou this summer, as some players are bound to do also during the transfer period. But as long as Lionel Messi is in Catalonia, the sublime genius of his game will burn bright.

Honourable mention: Iago Aspas – Celta Vigo

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