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Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni believes Lionel Messi does not need an international title to prove he is the best footballer in the history of the sport. Scaloni was talking to the press ahead of his side's Copa America 2021 final against Brazil on Saturday night when he addressed the issue.
Argentina have not won an international trophy since winning the Copa America in 1993. Since Lionel Messi's debut for the country in 2005, Argentina have reached three Copa America finals and one World Cup final, but have failed to win either competition.
Despite winning top honours domestically and in Europe, many have criticized Lionel Messi's inability to lead Argentina to victory.
The Barcelona star, however, has been Argentine's talisman once again at the Copa America 2021. The 34-year-old has scored four goals and provided five assists for Argentina on their road to the final of the competition this summer.
Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni believes Lionel Messi has nothing to prove. Scaloni added that the Barcelona forward is the best footballer in history even if Argentina fail to win the Copa America final against Brazil.
"Win or lose, he will continue being the best footballer in history, he doesn't need to win a title to demonstrate it. Obviously, we want to win because we haven't made all this effort not to break the bubble," said Scaloni in a pre-match press conference.
"In the background, whether Leo wins or doesn't, he has already demonstrated that he is the best in history, and even the opponents recognise it," added Scaloni.
Lionel Messi and Argentina will need to be at their best in the Copa America final
Brazil have scored 12 goals and conceded just two on their road to the Copa America 2021 final. The Selecao has been at the top of their game this summer and will prove to be a tricky test for Lionel Scaloni's side.
Meanwhile, Lionel Scaloni's side has been solid defensively but will be heavily dependent on Lionel Messi on Saturday night.
Also read: Italy vs England: 5 key battles | Euro 2020 final
