Ivan Rakitic has warned his team-mates that Lionel Messi will be “uber-motivated” for Thursday’s World Cup clash between Argentina and Croatia.
Messi missed a penalty as Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by Iceland in their opening match, while Rakitic’s team beat Nigeria to top the group.
Thursday’s game is a intriguing clash and Rakitic reckons his Barcelona team-mate will be seriously up for it.
“My impression is not just that he’s motivated, but that he’s uber-motivated,” said.
“When he goes to Argentina, he has a special smile on his face. I don’t think there is a player more proud to wear the jersey than he is.
”I appreciate him as a human and a player, I’ve seen the way he has been over the last few weeks, he has given his all and he deserves all our respect.”
Source | FourFourTwo
Thursday’s game is a crucial clash and Argentina really need a win to get their World Cup hopes back on track.