Lionel Messi has finally shown signs of slowing down after 15 years of dominating football. He has won everything he can possibly win and the only trophy missing from his cabinet is the World Cup trophy. However, Messi will have a chance of winning it this year at the World Cup in Qatar.

He came as close as anyone possibly can in 2014 when Messi single-handedly took Argentina to the final. However, Germany were just too good and got the win after an exhilarating tie that went to extra time. It was heartbreak for Argentina and Lionel Messi, but they’ll try it all over again in December.

Javier Mascherano has high hopes for Messi

Mascherano was there with Messi when Argentina lost the final. The former FC Barcelona defender had a great tournament in Brazil, but retired shortly after. In an interview with FIFA, the legendary footballer spoke about Argentina’s chances in this World Cup among other things.

He also talked about the impact Lionel Messi can have in Qatar and what sets him apart from the other footballers of his generation.

“Well, normal is not the case with Messi, that’s why I like to make it clear. Many times when you arrive with experience, you see everything that you can do, but there are things that your body does not allow you to do. In Leo’s case, it’s different, because he’s a different player,” Mascherano said.

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Lionel Messi is a complete player now

Mascherano didn’t stop there and added that Messi has become a complete player now. The Argentinian legend credited Messi’s growth to his experience and said that the Paris Saint Germain star still possesses the ability to be decisive in games.

“I think experience had made him a complete player. So, now he handles a lot of records that perhaps he did not handle when he was young, but he still has the ability to be decisive,” he added.

It’ll be interesting to see if Mascherano’s words ring true in a few month’s time in the World Cup, but no one should doubt Lionel Messi, not after what he has done.

Read More: Former Real Madrid Superstar Kaka Reveals He Was Snubbed From the Brazil Squad for the 2014 World Cup