Former Argentina international and World Cup winner, Daniel Passarella is of the opinion that Lionel Messi shouldn’t be the captain of Argentina due to his reserved personality. Passarella admits that he is a fan of the Barcelona number 10, but doesn’t think that he is a natural leader and taking the captain’s armband away would reduce the pressure on him.
"Not giving the captaincy of Argentina to Messi would take a weight off of him," said the former Argentina coach to a Chilean publication named El Mercurio.
He then went on to state the name of the player who he thinks should assume the role of the captain. According to him, the Argentina FA should appoint Ramiro Funes Mori as the reigning Ballon d’Or holder’s successor since his demanding and vocal personality makes him look like a natural leader.
"I think Argentina already have a great leader, which is Ramiro Funes Mori. He should be the captain.”
Passarella then went to speak on the differences between having a talented player and a leader. He also added that despite being one of the greatest players of all time, his personality is not fit to be the captain due to its conservative nature.
"The leader of the group is something different to the way you play and the talent of each player.
"I admire Messi, but I think his personality, his way of being, is withdrawn and timid."
Passerella's words might not be taken in a kind light since the former Newell’s kid led his nation to three consecutive finals—the World Cup 2014, Copa America 2015 and Copa America 2016—only to lose them in a heart-breaking manner.
After losing the final of the Copa America 2016, Lionel Messi was frustrated to such an extent that he made an impulsive decision to retire from the national team, a decision that shocked many. Diego Maradona even went on to point fingers at Messi’s mental strength.
However, after millions of request from fans and players alike, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner decided to return to international football. This move has rejuvenated Argentina as with his presence on the pitch, the team plays much better.
Without him, La Albiceste struggled to even win games as they have failed to win a single game in his absence.
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