**Rapporteur of the World Cup: Hernandez's Assist Statistics at Marseille**

In the realm of football, statistics often serve as a lens through which we can gain insights into player performance and team dynamics. For this analysis, let’s delve into the assist statistics of Lionel Messi for his time at Marseille.

Lionel Messi, known as "The Ballon d'Or" contender, spent three seasons with Marseille between 2014 and 2017. During this period, he was one of the most prolific assist creators in European football. His contributions to Marseille’s success were significant, and his influence on the club’s attacking style cannot be overstated.

### Messi's Assist Contributions

During his time at Marseille, Messi made a total of 56 assists across all competitions (league, cup, and friendly matches). This impressive number is particularly noteworthy given that he played primarily as a forward during his tenure there. His ability to create scoring opportunities for others, both inside and outside the box, was evident throughout his time at the club.

### Key Assist Types

1. **Inside Box Assists**: Messi frequently found himself in positions where he could distribute the ball to teammates who were closer to goal. He had numerous inside-box assists, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability on the field.

2. **Long-Range Assists**: Beyond the penalty area, Messi also delivered long-range assists that often led to decisive goals. These assists showcased his creativity and ability to find gaps in defenses from various distances.

3. **Set Pieces**: Messi’s assist count includes several set-piece assists, including free kicks and corner kicks. These assists highlight his role in setting up攻势 and creating opportunities from set pieces.

### Impact on Marseille's Success

Messi's assists played a crucial role in Marseille’s title-winning campaign of 2017. His consistent performances and ability to spark attacks from midfield were instrumental in their success. The club finished the season as runners-up, showcasing Messi’s impact on their attacking strategy.

### Comparison to Other Assist Creators

When compared to other top assist creators in European football, Messi stands out. Players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Kevin De Bruyne, and Antoine Griezmann have all recorded impressive numbers of assists over their careers. However, Messi’s consistency and adaptability make him a standout among them. His ability to deliver assists from various positions and under different conditions further solidifies his status as a premier assist creator.

### Conclusion

Lionel Messi’s assist statistics at Marseille demonstrate his exceptional skill and adaptability as a player. His contributions to Marseille’s success were integral to their title win in 2017, highlighting his importance not just as a scorer but also as a creative force within the team. As one of the greatest players of his generation, Messi continues to inspire fans and fellow footballers alike with his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.

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