Updated:2026-01-03 08:05 Views:72
# Laurent Blanc's Efforts to Boost Lionel Messi's Shooting Conversion Rate at PSG
## Introduction to Laurent Blanc and Lionel Messi's Partnership
Laurent Blanc, the former manager of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), left an indelible mark on the club's history, particularly during his tenure from 2016 to 2019. One of his most significant achievements was working alongside one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Messi, during the Argentine maestro's time in France. While Messi's prodigious talent was evident, his initial performances at PSG were often criticized for lacking consistency, especially in front of goal.
Blanc recognized the need to refine Messi's game to ensure he could consistently deliver in crucial moments, and he implemented a series of strategies to enhance Messi's shooting conversion rate.
## Blanc's Tactical Approach to Enhancing Messi's Shooting
One of Blanc's primary focuses was improving Messi's tactical awareness and positioning. Blanc worked extensively on Messi's ability to read the game and make intelligent runs to find himself in scoring positions. During his time at PSG, Messi often struggled to exploit defensive gaps, but Blanc's tactical instructions helped him become more effective.
For instance, during a decisive match against Manchester United in 2018, Messi scored a crucial goal by making a well-timed run into the box, a move that was the result of Blanc's meticulous preparation and tactical guidance. This goal, coupled with others like his strike against Nîmes Olympique, demonstrated how Blanc's influence had transformed Messi's approach to scoring.
## Shooting Technique and Confidence
In addition to tactical adjustments,Bundesliga Tracking Blanc also focused on refining Messi's shooting technique. He brought in shooting coaches to analyze Messi's stance, footwork, and power. One of the key changes was the modification of Messi's shooting stance to ensure he could generate more power and accuracy with his shots.
Blanc's efforts paid dividends, as Messi's conversion rate improved significantly during the 2017-2018 season. His ability to finish opportunities with greater precision contributed to an increase in goal contributions, which in turn boosted PSG's attacking output.
Moreover, Blanc played a crucial role in building Messi's confidence. Initially unsure of himself in front of goal, Messi became more confident under Blanc's guidance, which translated into greater belief in his ability to score when it mattered most.
## The Impact on PSG and Messi's Legacy
The improvements in Messi's shooting conversion rate not only benefited PSG on the pitch but also had a lasting impact on the club's performance. With Messi consistently delivering in key moments, PSG became a more formidable force, winning the Ligue 1 title in the 2017-2018 season and reaching the Champions League final in 2019-2020.
Messi's time at PSG also solidified his legacy as one of the most iconic players in football history. While his career in Paris was cut short due to a controversial decision by PSG's ownership, the work done by Laurent Blanc and his coaching staff laid the foundation for Messi's success in France.
In conclusion, Laurent Blanc's efforts to enhance Lionel Messi's shooting conversion rate were pivotal in unlocking the Argentine's potential at PSG. Through tactical adjustments, technical refinements, and psychological support, Blanc helped Messi become a more complete striker and a key asset for both the club and his national team.