Lionel Messi has already scored crucial goals in both of Argentina’s first two World Cup games.
However, Antonio Cuccitini, Messi’s grandfather, isn’t convinced his daughter’s son is playing to the best of his ability.
“I am honest, and I am not one for all the hype. He looks a little weak; he doesn’t run like he used to. He’s electric in Spain; he leaves all 22 players feeling dizzy. He’s not running now; i’m unconvinced,” Cuccitini said.
The superstar player’s grandfather was interviewed on Tuesday to mark his grandson’s 27th birthday, and said that, “He has to lift his spirit a little. I see him vomiting and it scares me. I don’t know what that is about. They say it’s nerves, but i’m not so sure. They’ve looked at everything and found nothing. Lionel used to run a lot; it really worries me. I can’t help it,” he remarked.
As for the Argentine captain’s role in the World Cup, Cuccitini was grateful for his grandson’s contribution in the match against Iran, which put his side through to the last 16.
“Thank god he scored that goal just in time and put us through. He‘ll raise his game in the coming matches. He’ll play better. You can’t ask for anymore. He’s not god, who can do everything,” he said.
Cuccitini concluded with a message to his grandson, “Keep your chin up; you'll do great. I love you lots.”
