Lionel Messi says his six-year-old son has questioned why he receives so much criticism in Argentina.
While Messi has inspired Barcelona to domestic and European dominance during his glittering career, international success has continued to elude him.
Argentina have lost successive Copa America finals and were beaten by Germany in the final of the 2014 World Cup despite Messi s efforts.
After Argentina were knocked out by France in the last 16 at Russia 2018, Messi stepped away from international duty and only made his return from a nine-month absence in a loss to Venezuela last week.
Messi subsequently pulled out of the Argentina squad to face Morocco in another friendly on Tuesday, a decision that has re-opened the debate surrounding his commitment to his country.
The Argentina captain was quick to hit back, however, in an interview with Buenos Aires-based radio station FM Club 947.
I dearly want to win something with the national side, I wanted to come back and want to participate in all the big games, Messi said.
When I made the decision to return, there were many who criticised the decision. My six-year-old son asked me: Dad, why do they crucify you in Argentina? .
I tell him that it s just a handful of people. I ve shown my desire to play for Argentina and don t need to prove this to anyone.
