'Between Argentina..' - Javier Mascherano explains the differences in Lionel Messi's characteristics while playing for club and country

Major League Soccer club Inter-Miami FC's head coach Javier Mascherano recently revealed Messi's desire to join his national side as soon as possible. The Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner missed the CONMEBOL World Cup qualification fixtures against Uruguay on March 22nd. Argentina went on to beat Uruguay 1-0 despite the absence of their talismanic captain.

Javier Mascherano, who shared the Argentine locker room with the little boy from Rosario for over a decade and is now his head coach explained the bond Messi shares with his national team. He further revealed his personal opinion on Messi's influence on the side he represents.

Javier Mascherano reveals Messi's connection with the Aregntine squad 

Javier Mascherano shared that he, along with Lionel Messi and Suarez, watched the Argentina-Uruguay match at the club headquarters. He further added that Messi's demeanour was that of a kid as he was engaging with the game and reacting to every key moment. He was actively providing guidance to the players as if he were on the field with them. When Argentina scored, he rose to his feet in appreciation.

"Messi, Suarez and I watched the Argentina-Uruguay match at the club headquarters. Messi was like a little child, moving and reacting to every opportunity. He was advising the players as if he was playing with them and saying, “Come on, pass to your teammate, no, no, shoot now, go back to defense.” When Argentina scored the goal, he stood up and applauded.” Javier said.

Javier revealed Messi's desire to join the national side during the international break. He explained the changes he observed in Messi's characteristics while representing his country over the years.

“Messi wanted to be with them during the international break because I played with him there. I saw a difference between the Argentine Messi and the Barcelona Messi. In Argentina, he becomes more comfortable, talks a lot, laughs with his teammates, trains a lot and focuses better" Javier explained.

Javier also asserted that Messi shouldered the national side's responsibilities and pressures that are often indescribable. Javier also wished to see Messi in national colours very soon.

“Argentina relied on Messi a lot and he carried an entire team and endured pressures that are difficult for any player to bear. We miss those days and I hope, as any Messi fan would, that he returns to the national team and wears the Argentine shirt " Javier added.

Argentina leads the standings of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers with 28 points in 13 matches. They are set to take on their arch-rivals and neighbours Brazil in their next fixture on March 26th