Lo Celso: Messi s words are the Bible, but that is based on his experiences and achievements

A few days ago, Argentine midfielder Lo Celso accepted an exclusive interview with the media. In the interview, Lo Celso talked about the topic of the national team and Messi.

■Why do you think this national team has not lost the "hunger" of competition?

Lo Celso said: "Football will make you like this, football does not allow you to relax. Today's football will push you to pursue more. And in the Argentine national team, this feeling is stronger because it is something in the bones of us Argentines: never relax, always pursue more. We have won many championships in the past few years, but you can see the desire to win more trophys in every game, just like when we first assembled."

■Whose credit is this? Is it Scaloni's coaching or Messi's role as a role model...?

"The road is always guided by the most senior players, and we have Messi here. Messi is our compass and leader. You see his training, competition, and playing football, just like he has just started his career, which will infect you. When you see him like that, it is impossible not to be infected, not to go all out, and not want to continue to win. He guides the road, we just need to follow."

■In 2016, when you were interviewed by The National Daily, you didn't know Messi, and you said: "He is pleasing to the eye, I want to take off my hat and pay tribute. He is too comprehensive and can learn a lot from him." So, what have you learned?

"You can learn a lot from players of this level, and it's all aspects. Especially in life, especially leadership. Just listening to him, you can learn something. Because he is Messi, as soon as he opens his mouth, you will be touched and moved. His words cannot make you indifferent. I still remember the pre-match speech before the 2021 Copa America final against Brazil. At the Maracana Stadium, I still remember it. I can't help crying. Messi's words are "Bible", but that is based on all his experiences and achievements. You can learn from him in many ways. Of course, you can learn from him on the court, but if you want to do what he does... it's a different matter."

■2024 Copa America final, after Messi was injured, you gave an assist to help Lautaro score the winning goal. Is this considered completing the task for him at that moment?

"Well...you see, this is an example. When you see Messi so sad and frustrated, how could you not give more strength? You just want to bring him some happiness when he is in pain and win the final without him on the court."