Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is undoubtedly one of - if not the best ever. Week in, week out, he does something spectacular on the pitch that usually leaves fans lost for words.  

He's won it all domestically. He's guided his team to multiple league titles, domestic cups, and European honours, as well as cleaning up individually. He's won the Ballon d'Or four times, meaning he's been voted the best player in the world on each of these occasions. 

But internationally, he's struggled. 

The success he's seen at the Nou Camp has not been replicated on the international stage with Argentina. 

The 29-year-old did drive his team to the World Cup final in 2014, but they were beaten by Germany in extra-time. He also reached the final of the Copa America with his country three times, but Argentina were beaten in 2007 by Brazil and twice on penalties by Chile in 2015 and 2016. 

So much was the disappointment of last year's final defeat, Messi retired from international football after that game, only to return a few months later.  

He's been criticised in the past by Argentina fans who believe the forward is not committed enough to his national side.   

After picking up a four-match ban for verbally abusing an official in last month's World Cup qualifier against Chile, that criticism has resurfaced.

However, Messi has said he is not phased by his critics.

"The criticism I receive is not something I care about because I know about the things that happened," he told Esquire, as per Goal.   

"I understand the people who always want us to win and demand that we deliver a trophy. But those of us who play for the national team want to win a title too."

The forward also revealed the medal he cherishes most, and it may surprise some fans. He said:

"The Olympic gold in 2008 is the win that I value the most because it is a tournament that you may only play in once in your life and involves many athletes from different disciplines."

Messi will miss Argentina's next three World Cup qualifying fixtures against Uruguay, Venezuela, and Peru. He's always a notable absence from the squad but will be hoping his country can push for qualification while he's not available.

If they do make it to Russia, the 29-year-old will have one more crack at winning the World Cup in 2018.   

Will Messi still be the best ever even if he doesn't win the World Cup? Have your say in the comments below.