NEWS: Barcelona star Leo Messi says he understands why his team-mate Ronaldinho wants to rest instead of play in the Copa America, but the Argentina star insists he wouldn’t contemplate missing the tournament in Venezuela.
The 19-year-old (pictured) told FIFA.com: “When it comes to playing for Argentina, I’m hugely motivated. So naturally I want to be in the team.
“We’re all really looking forward to it, but I also understand the position of players like (Brazil’s) Ronaldinho or Kaka, who have decided not to go. The league season in Europe really takes it out of you.”
Messi played down his own superstar status insisting he was not the best player in the world – a title he gives to Ronaldinho – and he is not taking an Argentina starting place for granted this summer.
“First I want to make the squad, later make the starting eleven, and then put in a good performance,” he said.
“We all want to win this one after the disappointment of losing the last Copa America in the final minute (to Brazil).”
July 20, 2007 at 10:55 pm
goooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Messi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i really beleve that argentina can win but……………………….. watch out 4 brazils fowerds Adreino and robinho pluse there strong mid felled controled by ronaldinho and kaka that game is something to look fowerd to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!