Messi’s First Argentina Coach Reveals True Story of Preventing Lionel from Playing for Spain

In a revealing interview, Lionel Messi's first coach with the Argentina national team, Hugo Tocalli, shared the fascinating story of how they managed to keep the football prodigy from representing Spain. Tocalli, who worked with Messi during his early years, recounted the efforts made to ensure Messi's loyalty to Argentina, despite the allure of playing for La Roja.

Messi, who was born in Rosario, Argentina, moved to Spain at the age of 13 to join FC Barcelona's famed La Masia academy. As his star began to rise, Spain saw an opportunity to naturalize the young talent. However, Tocalli and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) were determined to keep Messi in the Albiceleste colors.

'We knew we had to act quickly,' Tocalli explained. 'We made sure Lionel felt valued and part of the Argentina family. We invited him to train with the national team, even at a young age, to show him our commitment.'

The strategy paid off. Messi debuted for Argentina in 2005 and has since become the country's all-time leading scorer and one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. His allegiance to Argentina has been unwavering, despite the temptation of playing for Spain.

Tocalli's story sheds light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped Messi's international career, highlighting the dedication of those who believed in his potential from the very beginning.

• Argentina National Team
• Lionel Messi