Thursday, 5th December, 2013
Lionel Messi can secure his place in history as the best player of all-time, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes.
Messi has scooped the last four Ballon d'Ors and is in the running to win his fifth, although he faces strong opposition from Cristiano Ronaldo and Franck Ribery.
For Wenger though Messi should have his eye on another prize – the World Cup.
Indeed, lead Argentina to the World Cup next summer and Messi will be the greatest player of all-time, the Arsenal manager believes.
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"People say Lionel Messi is not at the top of his game, but Barcelona won La Liga in a very convincing way last season, with over 100 goals", Wenger wrote on Eurosport.
"People judge on the moment but his last season was truly amazing. He has the opportunity to be the best of all time.
"Argentina still doesn’t know it but Lionel Messi can give a big win to his country.
"If he achieves it during the Brazil World Cup he will be the best player ever.
"But it won’t be easy: Argentina have many great forwards, but defensively they are not great. Their defence has not been very convincing, especially in South Africa in 2010 and also in qualifying.
"If Argentina do find a balance however, they will be one of the favourites for the trophy."
Messi is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury and only expected to return in early January.
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