According to Fabrizio Romano’s report on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Lionel Messi still holds the record for the most goals scored by a footballer in a calendar year during the 21st century. He scored an astonishing 91 goals in 2012.

The Argentine reached the milestone while playing for Barcelona, netting 79 times for the club and 12 times for his national team.

Messi’s 2012 total remains one of football’s most remarkable individual accomplishments. His consistent scoring across club and international competitions made the year especially memorable.

Other leading forwards have also recorded impressive calendar-year totals. Robert Lewandowski scored 69 goals in 2021, equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2013 tally. Ronaldo also scored 63 goals for club and country in 2012, adding to his reputation as one of the game’s most prolific scorers.

Kylian Mbappé registered 66 goals in 2025, showcasing his attacking ability and standing among the sport’s elite.

However, none of these totals has come close to Messi’s 91 goals. The record remains a frequent topic in discussions about football’s greatest goalscorers, as reaching such a figure in a single year demands exceptional fitness, consistency and finishing.

As new attacking talents emerge, fans will be watching to see whether anyone can challenge Messi’s historic mark. For now, his 2012 achievement remains unmatched.