Argentina coach Gerardo Martino has suggested that Lionel Messi is currently dealing with the mental and physical results of having been the focal point in so many games over the last decade for club and country.

Messi, 27, has already played over 500 senior club and international matches since making his Barcelona debut in October 2004 — winning every trophy available with the Camp Nou club, and playing in three World Cups with Argentina.

The four-time Ballon d’Or winner was troubled by persistent muscle problems throughout the 2013-14 season, but has been fit enough to start all his club’s La Liga and Champions League games so far this term.

Messi has scored 21 times in those 21 click read full story