Messi: 'They ask me if it will be my last World Cup... I don't know'

Messi first reflected on one of the saddest chapters of his international career: "When I resigned from the national team after the Copa America in the United States, I didn't want to hurt anyone. I just wanted to help, as I always tried to do.

"But then I realised that I love my country, my people and this shirt. I thank all the people, those close to me and those who have supported me and continue to do so now".

Turning his attention to this summer's World Cup, Messi could not hide his excitement and arrives at what could be his final tournament in good condition.

He added: "They ask me if it will be my last World Cup and I don't know. I don't think about it now. It will surely depend on how we do this month and how we finish the tournament.

"We were very close last time against Germany. I think we deserved to win that game. It's difficult ro be so close and not get it, losing hurt a lot".