Maradona: Argentina have to build a future with Messi in mind

Diego Maradona has returned to defend Lionel Messi after Argentina's Copa America final defeat and the decision of the Barça striker to announce his retirement from international football.

The 55-year-old - coinciding with the 30-year anniversary of Argentina's 1986 World Cup triumph - spoke to 'La Red' about the scrutiny that Messi endures for the Albiceleste and why the player needs time and space to think about his judement.

"Those who criticise [Messi] have never kicked a ball in their lives," Maradona said, "Argentina lost the other two [World Cup and Copa America] finals and Messi said 'I'm going on holiday, leave me alone and I'll think about things' and I think that's great.

"They have to build a future with Messi in mind. And if he doesn't want [to be part of that], don't bother him anymore, we'll have to present a different team on the pitch. I would ask Messi to consider returning in a month."