Messi in numbers; where does he rank in the standings for the Golden Boot and Ballon d'Or?

Just after the 2018 Ballon d'Or has been handed out, there is already a familiar recipient of the trophy whose numbers threaten to take it away. That , and the Golden Boot, of which he is the current possessor. Lionel Messi is in devastating form at the start of this campaign. 

His 15 goals, and nine assists so far, apart from forming a clinical record, highlight him as the most decisive player on European soil. None of the other top stars come close to equalling his figures.

This signifies that Messi has had a direct impact in 24 goals in all competitions this season (Super Cup, League , Champions League and King's Cup). But in addition, it is incredible that he has achieved these statistics in just 16 games. 

He is followed by Robert Lewandowski, another who has been flush in front of goal, in spite of Niko Kovac's erratic managerial style at Bayern Munich. 17 goals and 4 assists leave him three shy of the Argentine's tally, having played three more games.

Four goals away is one of Messi's great friends, PSG forward Neymar.  He has also notched 15 goals, although only has five assists. He has also played more games than his former Barcelona teammate. 

In the remainder of the 20 club sit various players. First Kylian Mbappé, also of PSG, who has far less goals and assists than Messi. Yet coupled with Neymar, they have formed a sensational strike force in the French capital.

Another pair that sit close behind the Frenchman, are the lesser known Eintracht Frankfurt duo Haller and Jovic, who wilth 11+9 and 15+3 respectively, have been crucial to the success of​ Adi Hutter's side this season. 

Surprisingly, bigger names such as Cristiano Ronaldo (11+6), Harry Kane (13+2), Luis Suarez (9+6) and Raheem Sterling (9+6) sit further down the list. 

It seems that once more this season, Lionel Messi will remain the top dog...