The stats that prove Messi & everyone else wrong: Andre Gomes is the new Xavi!
According to recent reports in Spain, Lionel Messi wants Barcelona to sell Andre Gomes this summer – less than a year after arriving at Camp Nou from Valencia for €35 million.
It seems as if even the world's greatest player neither appreciates nor understands the understated brilliance of Andre Gomes!
However, the truth can often be misleading, whereas stats, like the hips of Gerard Pique's wife, don't lie.
Statistically speaking, there is no better midfielder in the tournament!. Andre Gomes has a higher pass completion percentage (94.57) than any other player in his position to have featured in at least six games. That illustrious list includes supposed midfielder maestros Thiago Alcantara (92.61%), Toni Kroos (91.43%), Marco Verratti (89.53%) and Barca colleague Sergio Busquets (91.47%). The Portugal international also comes out on top when it comes to pass percentage in the opposition half (93.85%) and in terms of passes into the final third of the pitch (91.75%). There really is no end to his talents, other than the actual creation and scoring of goals.
But then, it's important not to get too bogged down in such things. The other stats speak for themselves: Andre Gomes is the new Xavi! It's high time Messi and the rest of the world accept it.