Messi has hit six goals in eight appearances this season for the Blaugrana, with last weekend’s double against Granada seeing him take his career goal tally over the 400 mark. And fellow Argentina international Mascherano believes that the 27-year-old has helped write Barca into history.
"Everything Barca have achieved in recent years has been thanks to players like Messi, [Andres] Iniesta and Xavi,” he told Tot Sant Cugat.
"They have made this team one of the best in history. Messi has given a lot to Barca, and Barca to Messi too.
"Criticism of Messi, on several occasions, has been excessive. We are accustomed to unimaginable things, that only he can do, and when he doesn't score a goal it doesn't mean he's not good.
"It's practically impossible to see him play badly."
Mascherano also confirmed his intention to see out the remainder of his contract in Spain, insisting Barca will be his final European club before an expected return to Argentina, most likely back at River Plate.
"At the end of last season I met with Barca officials and told them if they didn't think I could still help the team, I would leave," said the 30-year-old.
"The club and the coach have shown confidence in me, though, and for that reason I will try to be as good I have been in my first four years at Barca - always giving my all.
"I've renewed with the intention of ending my European career with Barca.
"I would like to complete it. When my contract ends I will be 34 and maybe that will be a good time to look for a new challenge with less demands."
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