World Cup-winning coach Vicente del Bosque has revealed he tried to convince Lionel Messi to play for Spain when he was younger.
The 35-year-old established as Argentine legend last weekend after guiding the side to their third FIFA World Cup title after they overcame France on penalties.
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Messi is currently Argentina's all-time leading scorer and most capped player, while he was also captain when the team won the Copa America last year.
All of that could have been different if he had represented Spain, but Del Bosque reveals Messi only had his sights on representing La Albiceleste.
"I tried everything to get Messi to play for Spain. However, Lionel refused because of the love he has for his country," Del Bosque told Radio Marca.
The former Spain and Real Madrid coach also believes Messi is the best player he's ever seen.
"The best player I have ever seen is Messi. Between Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, I'll take Messi," he added.
"Of all the players I have known in so many years in football, for me Messi, for his consistency and his quality as a player, has been impressive. He has had some fantastic seasons and has always led his team forward."
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