The 2019 Copa America is right around the corner and with it returns the pressure on Lionel Messi to deliver an international trophy. The Argentine's trophy cabinet is filled with accolades from Barcelona, but the one reserved for his national team sadly remains empty.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner turns 32 this month and while he will likely be a central figure in next year's Copa America, being held in his home country, failure at Brazil 2019 would only stain his career.
After reaching back-to-back finals in 2015 and 2016, La Pulga knows the pressure to end La Albiceleste's 26-year wait for a FIFA-sanctioned silverware weighs the heaviest on his shoulders. But can he overcome the odds?
Leo holds two Copa America records but is still on the hunt for his first title
The two-time World Cup champion may have thrashed Nicaragua 5-1 in a friendly recently, but their first-half display showed that there is a lot of work left for Lionel Scaloni. The South American giant will face tougher opponents once the tournament begins, namely Colombia in the group stage, and will need to be at their best.
The over-dependence on Messi has and still is an issue with La Albiceleste as his quick-fire brace was the spark they needed. However, even a genius like Leo has his off and it's in the moments that his team-mates must step up.
After coming up short in the Champions League and Copa del Rey, winning the Copa America could be the difference between remaining at five Ballon d'Ors and winning a record sixth trophy. Additionally, seeing rival Cristiano Ronaldo win a second title with his national side will only add to Messi's drive.
He holds the record for most assists in the Copa America and most Man of the Match awards in history, but it's the most important thing that continues to evade him. The 31-year-old will give it everything to put that to an end. Only time will tell if he will be successful.
