"He's the best player ever, I agree," Lopetegui said, in an interview with Argentinian sports channel 'TyC Sports'. For the head coach of 'La Roja', Argentina are one of the favourites for the upcoming World Cup thanks to the Barcelona star.

When Messi was young he could have become a Spanish national, and could have chosen to represent the Spanish national team, but he never considered it. Lopetegui isn't bothered by that decision.

"Messi plays for Argentina, we have what we have," said the 51-year-old, who can call upon Isco and Iniesta, among others. He's not exactly short of top players.

"I try to to encourage the qualities which we consider are the best, and that's why we have to make sure we play together," he added.

On Samapoli's Argentina, Lopetegui said: "They are an extraordinary team, with some extraordinary players and a coach who has given them something extra. They will be one of the teams fighting for the title."

"If they gave us points for recognising that we're favourites, I would do it. But seeing as it makes no difference... What matters is what we do on the pitch. We have to make sure we are at our best against whoever we may be up against," he concluded, on Spain's role in the World Cup.