Maradona believes Messi needs to stand up to Barca management if he seriously wants to play for Argentina next month.

"What I am saying is that Messi has to decide for himself. It is a time to become more of a man," said Maradona.

"I think that Messi lacks a little character.

"Hopefully, over time, he will become stronger through his football. He will become more of a leader. Hopefully in two or three years we'll be able to say that Leo is a leader."