Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi was able to silence plenty of doubters last year when he guided the Argentina national team to triumph in the 2021 Copa America tournament. Messi not only shined on the pitch for La Albiceleste, but he also impacted the squad off the pitch as well.
For one, Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez featured at the 2021 Copa America tournament, which was his first time playing alongside Messi at a major international tournament. Alvarez had a front-row seat to see Messi lead the group, and as he told City TV, he was blown away by the PSG star’s astounding leadership traits.
“I started sharing dressing rooms with the group at the Copa America or a little before that,” Alvarez said. “I didn’t know him very well, how he was as a captain. But to be honest, I was surprised because from the outside he always looked like a shy or quieter person. Being there, you realize that he is a really normal person.
“He is a great person and a great captain. He leads the group in a great way and this was reflected before the final. He said some amazing words.”
For now, Messi is looking to lead Argentina to World Cup glory next month.
