Argentine federation chief: We have asked Messi to play less for Barcelona LaLiga - Barcelona Claudio Tapia wants him fresh for the World Cup

Argentine football federation president Claudio Tapia said he has asked Lionel Messi to play less for Barcelona and be fresher for the World Cup.

Messi has been in blistering form for the Catalan side that have raced clear at the top of LaLiga but in Argentina they are hoping that he doesn't burn out before the summer.

"I hope that all the players will have the same form that they are in at the moment," Tapia explained.

"Sergio Aguero is playing fantastically and Lionel Messi is always strong.

"This is important for the coaches and directors, we spoke with Messi for him to look after himself and play less at Barcelona."

He also revealed that they had received an offer to play a friendly game against Catalonia in Barcelona on Juen 4th and they are discussing the possibility.

"Jorge (Sampaoli) said that it would be a good idea on a football level and for us it would also be important economically," he added.