Ronaldinho: It is football's loss if Messi does not return

Recalling the time when Ronaldinho first came across Messi at his former club Barcelona, the Brazilian star told Times of India, “When I first saw him, I already knew Messi is going to be a legend. There was a lot of potential in him and I am glad that he didn't waste his talent. The one thing which pleases me is how Messi has never changed as a person. He has become better with every passing day but has still remained grounded”.

The 36-year-old has revealed that he still keeps in touch with Messi. “Yes, we always keep speaking about the styles of football,” Ronaldinho added.

Ronaldinho believes that now Messi and Neymar share the same relationship that he used to have with the Argentine during his early days. “Although I don't know the relation they share, I would like to believe that Messi is playing a mentor's role to Neymar. The affection that I had for Messi, I feel Messi has the same affection towards Neymar. Also, it is important that an experienced player guides a youngster at a big club. I believe that is the reason why Neymar has adapted so well at Barcelona,” Ronaldinho explained.

After facing another disappointment in the final of the Copa America, Messi announced his retirement from international football. However, Ronaldinho insists that it will be football's loss if Messi decides against returning to play for Argentina.

“He is still the best. It doesn't matter if he had not won any major trophies. There is some speculation that he may come out of retirement. But even if he doesn't return, it is football's loss, not his,” Ronaldinho told Times of India.