Lionel Messi needs to play less Barcelona matches to prepare for World Cup, says AFA presidentLionel Messi has started 33 of Barcelona's 39 matches so far this seasonThe Argentine FA's president Claudio Tapia wants captain Lionel Messi to play less games for Barcelona in order to stay fresh for the 2018 World Cup. Tapia's pleas have largely gone unheeded by Barca coach Ernesto Valverde, who has started Messi in 33 of 39 games this season, only leaving him out of the matchday squad in three Copa del Rey matches. Barcelona vs Girona Live on"I hope all the players arrive in the level they are at the moment. Sergio Aguero is playing outstanding right now and Lionel Messi is always at the top of his game," Tapia told Argentine network TYC Sports. We have spoken to Messi about taking care of himself and about playing less for Barcelona."

Source: Sky sports February 13, 2018 15:00 UTC