They say that in order to taste success, one must first face failure. Lionel Messi‘s international career is a testament to this belief. After enduring repeated disappointments, the Argentinian superstar finally achieved glory with his beloved national team. But throughout this journey, came uninvited criticism from his own country. Now, having won everything, Messi reflects on these experiences and enjoys his moments with ‘more calmness.’

During a tete-a-tete in an exclusive interview for InfoBae with renowned Argentinian journalist, Pollo Alvarez, the 36-year-old asked if he is enjoying his time with La Albiceleste more than ever or if it is the same as before. As compiled by @psg__chief on X, the skipper said, “Having won and achieved everything with the National team, I enjoy the moments now with more calmness and in a different way. I have had tough moments before, like reaching the World Cup final and losing, and also reaching the Copa America twice and losing. Now I feel a lot better”

Interestingly, a second consecutive failure during the 2016 Copa America had even forced Messi to announce his retirement from the international front. However, after a lot of requests and prayers from a few of his ardent fans, he returned and finally broke the deadlock by winning the 2019 Copa America. Lionel Scaloni again led the team to the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, breaking a 36-year-old hiatus.

Notably, eyes are now affixed on the upcoming edition of Copa America. They will be leading Group A and are drawn alongside Canada, Peru, and Chile. Prior to this, they are also bound to participate in two warm-up friendlies against Ecuador and Guatemala later this week. While they are entering the competition on June 20 as favorites, Messi begs to differ!

Lionel Messi downplays the ‘favorites’ hype surrounding Argentina ahead of the 2024 Copa America

In a similar interview, Lionel Messi was questioned if Lionel Scaloni and Co. are favorites to lift the CONMEBOL-based trophy. Although the Inter Miami star acknowledged that Argentina and fellow teams like Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay are ‘always‘ favorites, be it Copa America or World Cup, he knows challenges would persist: “It is a very difficult tournament but I think it is going to be a very close Copa America this year,” he said.

Clearly, Messi isn’t interested in being overconfident before entering the tournament. Although his presence can make a significant difference, the former PSG star is aware of the tough competition that Lionel Scaloni and his team may encounter. In fact, his fellow teammate Rodrigo De Paul also poured cold water on Argentina being favorites, insisting that having Messi ‘doesn’t mean anything’ as the ‘favorite doesn’t always win.’

But we are sure that Messi being more comfortable than ever is a plus point for Argentina ahead of the tournament, allowing them to play without any tension.