Spain coach Fernando Hierro said that Lionel Messi cannot be solely blamed for Argentina’s poor performance in this World Cup as the Albiceleste’s failure is collective.
Messi took most of the blame due to his country’s failure in this World Cup. While Messi missed a penalty in their shock 1-1 draw against Iceland, he was a complete non-event in their second match of the group stage against Croatia—a match where the two times World Champions got thrashed 3-0.
Still, is Messi alone to be blamed for this? Hierro suggested otherwise as he said that he believes everything that happens in a game is a collective issue, thus dividing the blame on the other stars of the Albiceleste squad.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Hierro said the talent in the South Americans' squad meant there were bigger issues than just Messi.
“I have always thought that everything that happens in a game, the good and the bad, is a group issue. And if it is not, you better go play tennis,” he said.
“All the good or bad things that Argentina, us or everyone can do will come from that group of lads that came here fighting for one aim.
“Obviously there are people with huge names after winning a lot of individual prizes that have spotlights on them.
“But if you see the group of talented players that Argentina have, and the importance of them on their clubs, you realise that it has to be a collective thing. But I have enough on my plate than to watch other teams.”
While Argentina struggle, Spain are top of Group B ahead of a meeting with Morocco Monday.
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