Know how is Messi's international career, whose smile is killer
As a dual Argentine-Spanish national, Messi was eligible to play for the national team of both countries.
Messi declined the offer, having aspired to represent La Albiceleste since childhood.
The Argentine Football Association organised two under-20 friendlies in June 2004, against Paraguay and Uruguay, with the purpose of finalising his status as an Argentina player in FIFA.
As he lacked the stamina of his teammates, the result of his former growth hormone deficiency, he was used as a substitute in six of the nine games.
After being named man of the match against Venezuela, he scored the winning 2–1 goal in the crucial last match against Brazil, thereby securing their third-place qualification for the FIFA World Youth Championship.
Messi employed a personal trainer to increase his muscle mass, returning to the squad in an improved condition in time for the World Youth Championship, hosted by the Netherlands in June.
After he was left out of the starting line-up in their first match against the United States, a 1–0 defeat, the squad's senior players asked manager Francisco Ferraro to let Messi start, as they considered him their best player.
Next : Neymar Jr Welcomes Baby Girl With Girlfriend Bruna Biancardi, Shares Heartwarming Pictures