Jorge Valdano says Lionel Messi can't influence games like he once did

Jorge Valdano reckons that Lionel Messi has lost a little part of what made him unplayable for so many seasons. 

The former Real Madrid player suggested to Radio Marca that his fellow countryman is no longer able to change matches like he once was.

"[Messi's] lost that ability to surprise opponents in the final third," Valdano opined.

"That was what helped Barça win so many matches."

The Argentine also expressed his surprise at the new position Messi has been playing in this season.

Luis Enrique has handed him a role slightly deeper than normal.

"There have been very few times that I've seen a player change position from one season to another," Valdano continued.

"Especially considering Messi carried so much weight in the Barça team not just as a player, but as a goal scorer."