New season, same old Messi.

The Barcelona talisman started his Champions League campaign in blistering form on Tuesday, scoring a spectacular hat-trick as PSV Eindhoven were thrashed at the Nou Camp.

Lionel Messi channelling Jonny Wilkinson for the first goal of the 48th hat-trick of his career.pic.twitter.com/eRM1AVegI9

— Nick Harris (@sportingintel) September 18, 2018

The 31-year-old opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a trademark free kick, before he slid in an exquisite volley on 77 minutes for his second.

It was a remarkable 42nd treble for Messi in his Barcelona career, and a record eighth in the Champions League – taking him one ahead of fierce rival Cristiano Ronaldo.

Leo Messi has now scored a record 8⃣ #UCL hat-tricks ⚽️⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/VmQFdzrKO0

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 18, 2018

It also took his tally in the competition to 103 goals, while 61 goals in 64 were netted in group stage games - another record held by the Argentine maestro.

Champions League all-time top scorers:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo – 120

2. Lionel Messi – 103

3. Raul – 71

4. Ruud van Nistelrooy – 56

5. Karim Benzema – 56