Maradona Reveals: Mascherano Failed to Protect Messi in Russia

Following the Albiceleste’s poor World Cup campaign in Russia, Messi took the brunt of the criticism as the focal point and captain of the team.

However, Maradona believes the Blaugrana talisman was made a scapegoat for Argentina’s disappointing tournament, and feels that Mascherano, who was one of the most experienced players in the side, should have done more to protect the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

“It is very easy to say that Messi is to blame, but they are going to kill the kid,” he told Infobae.

“And this kills me because if there are comrades who really love Messi, they should have come out and defended him, not press silence.

“I was wrong about Mascherano, I thought he was a leader. Today, I have to say that Mascherano is not what I believed, but that mistake is totally mine, not his.”

The 1986 World Cup winner also insisted, once again, that Messi should not return to the national team.

“That’s why I am telling him not to come back and take all of the blame,” Maradona added.

“We will mourn him because there is no other player like him, but just as Messi falls, so does the AFA.”

Messi has not retired from international football, but will not be present for Argentina’s upcoming matches during the international break.