LIONEL MESSI GETS “pissed off” if he does not receive the ball and should always be the focal point for Barcelona and Argentina, says former team-mate Xavi Hernández.
Xavi was part of a golden era alongside Messi under Pep Guardiola at Camp Nou, claiming 25 trophies with the club before departing for a new challenge with Al Sadd in 2015.
Messi’s status as a global phenomenon is beyond doubt, and he has enjoyed an illustrious domestic career, winning eight LaLiga titles, four Champions Leagues and five Copas del Rey with Barca.
However, it has been a story of heartbreak for Messi with Argentina, losing three Copa America finals and missing out on 2014 World Cup glory to Germany.
Messi has often come under scrutiny for failing to replicate his sublime Barca form with his country, but Xavi says both sides must make the most of their prized asset.
“Barcelona and the Argentine team can’t afford to spend even 10 minutes of the match with Leo not getting possession of the ball,” Xavi said in an interview with Mundo Leo.
He has to be wherever it goes and if he’s not there, bring it to him. (Otherwise) he’s going to get pissed off.
“Messi is the one that will make things happen for the team.”
Argentina only occupy a play-off spot in the CONMEBOL section of World Cup qualifying.
They host Peru on Thursday before visiting Ecuador on Tuesday as they bid to clinch a top-four spot that will secure their spot for the tournament next year.
While their campaign has been underwhelming, Xavi believes Jorge Sampaoli, who took over as head coach in May, can lead Argentina to World Cup glory.
“I see them being very capable of winning a World Cup next year,” he continued.
“It is true that now they are in a difficult situation, which is the qualification in South America.
“But we will all agree that if they qualify for the World Cup, they must be one of the favourites based on their players and now because I think they have the right coach. Everyone appreciates Sampaoli in Spain.”
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