Lionel Messi has lifted four Champions League titles and ten La Liga trophies in 16 incredible years at Barcelona, but his achievements at international level are distinctly average for someone of his calibre.
The most often used criticism against Messi is that he's never won any silverware with Argentina.
Messi may have contributed 68 goals in 132 appearances since making his international debut against Hungary in 2005, but the little magician has failed to pick up a major trophy since.
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The question still remains; is the five-time Ballon d'Or winner really to blame for Argentina's lack of success?
He can only do so much, after all.
For years Argentina have struggled to live up to expectation, even with arguably the greatest player ever at their disposal.
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You could even argue that Lionel Scaloni has the best forward line in world football at his disposal, with Sergio Aguero, Paulo Dybala and Mauro Icardi featuring in their latest Copa America campaign.
And still they struggle to gel as a team.
Last night's abysmal result against Paraguay is a perfect example of a group of players who are far from ready to challenge for silverware.
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The 14-time winners could only savage a point thanks to a penalty from Messi, and one particular moment involving the Barcelona man sums up a desperate performance.
With a lack of options ahead of him, Messi is left to try and unlock Paraguay's defensive line on his own.
Something that has become a regular trend in recent years.
Let's be clear here. Argentina's lack of success isn't down to Messi. His goals have helped them qualify for three major finals in three years between 2014 and 2016.
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If it wasn't for his genius, it's likely that Argentina wouldn't have even qualified for the World Cup last summer.
Even the best players need quality around them.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: SPORT, Football News, International, Football, Barcelona, Messi, Lionel Messi, Soccer, Argentina, Paraguay
