Lionel Messi sends defiant ‘lost my fear’ message ahead of Copa America final – with Argentina captain lifting the lid on injury issues

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is looking to savour continental success with his country for a second time. Fitness problems have hindered his cause, with a muscle complaint forcing him to sit out a group stage clash with Peru. He netted his first goal of the competition in a semi-final win over Canada and claims to be back in shape for a meeting with Colombia that will see major silverware come up for grabs.

Messi has told Dsports of contending with physical issues: “With Canada I felt very good physically. With Chile I had an adductor problem and I no longer played comfortably. I was already slowed down, it bothered me when I had to stand up or move laterally. And with Ecuador I arrived just in time too. I was fine from the injury, but I had that in my head that I had something wrong. In the last match [against Canada] I lost my fear, I felt better and for the final I will feel better.”

Messi is the most-decorated player in history, with 44 honours to his name, and is determined to deliver more inspiration for the next generation when it comes to the art of trophy collecting. He added: “This is a very young generation, and they were champions of America, of the World... They are 23, 24 and 25 years old. They have a whole career with the national team ahead of them. I hope they don't lose the desire to continue winning, competing and transmitting the same message to those who come after them. For me, the fundamental thing is to have a good group. From there, achievements can come.”

Argentina claimed the Copa crown in 2021, before going on to beat European champions Italy in the Finalissima. Messi then inspired a memorable World Cup win at Qatar 2022, with questions being asked of how many international appearances the 37-year-old forward has left in him.