Lionel Messi has revealed his stance towards the concept of statistics in football, pointing out that he plays only to enjoy himself. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is on the verge of extending his record as the most decorated player in football history after helping Inter Miami into the MLS Cup final.Messi held an interview with Sports Center ESPN where he revealed that he does not pay much attention to statistics despite its relevance in today's game. The 38-year-old forward explained that he likes to be decisive in games, but that his achievements did not come with intentionality.“People today focus a lot on statistics, and personally, I don’t really like statistics. I don’t think I must score or assist just to reach a record or surpass someone. I live the game and enjoy it. I like to be decisive and involved in the flow of the match — but I don’t play for stats, and I’ve never given them importance. Everything happened naturally, not because I was chasing numbers or trying to surpass anyone. Things simply happened because they happened", he said (via @Intermiamicfhub on X).Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest footballer to have kicked a ball professionally, owing to the plethora of records and achievements to his name. In his most recent appearance for Inter Miami, the Argentina international recorded the 405th assist of his career to surpass Pele's record assists tally.Messi has won 47 titles as a professional footballer, making him by far the most decorated player in the history of the game. The former Barcelona star is one of a handful of players to have won the biggest titles in club and international football, while also winning the Ballon d'Or.Lionel Messi in line for MLS record in Whitecaps clashLionel Messi is in line to break the record of most assists in a single MLS campaign held by Carlos Valderrama ahead of the MLS Cup final. Messi and his Inter Miami teammates will face Vancouver Whitecaps for the 2025 MLS title on December 6th at the Chase Stadium. Messi has registered 21 assist in the regular season and playoffs for Inter Miami this season, helping them make a deep playoff run. The record for most assists in a single season of the MLS is held by Colombian legend Carlos Valderrama, who registered 26 assists for Tampa Bay in the 2000 MLS season. Lionel Messi has been in fine form for his side this season, having won the Golden Boot in the MLS before the playoffs. The veteran forward recently committed his future to Inter Miami, signing a three-year deal with the Herons.