Lionel Messi was back to his best in a brilliant display for Argentina vs Venezuela on Friday evening.

The legendary forward has not looked his usual self for the majority of his Paris Saint-Germain spell.

Messi has scored just two goals in 18 Ligue 1 games and has come under heavy criticism since signing for the French giants since last summer.

But he sent a message to his critics with a superb display for his national side at La Bombonera.

Messi looked a changed man as he embarrassed defenders and played some incredible passes during the 90 minutes.

The 34-year-old also got on the scoresheet as he scored his side's third in a 3-0 win.

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There was an element of fortune about the goal as Messi controlled Angel Di Maria's dinked through ball before his scuffed effort found the net.

Messi was given a 9/3/10 rating by Sofascore, highlighting just how well he played.

His superb highlights have been compiled in a six-minute video by YouTube user, NugoBasilaiaa. View them below...

The match against Venezuela may be the last game that Messi plays for Argentina in front of his own fans.

Messi is 35 in June and could retire from international duty after featuring for Argentina at the Qatar World Cup later this year.

"It has been a while that I am happy here, since before winning the Copa. I am thankful for all this they make me feel every time I come to Argentina,'' Messi said, per ESPN.

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - MARCH 25: Lionel Messi of Argentina fights for the ball with Yangel Herrera of Venezuela during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualification match between Argentina and Venezuela at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on March 25, 2022 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

Asked about continuing with Argentina after the World Cup, he replied: "I don't know, the truth is I don't know. I think about that is coming, which is close, Ecuador (on Tuesday). The preparation matches in June and September.

"Let's hope these go the best way possible. But for sure after the World Cup many things will change."