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Lionel Messi is hurt by accusations that he puts less heart on the field while representing the Argentine national team than at the club.
The 24-year-old footballer is considered the best in the world, but he faces criticism for not showing his usual game in the national team.
"Yes, it hurts and annoys me, because it's not true," Messi said. "People need to understand that football is a team game, and I try just as hard in the national team as at the club."
Messi, who has been living in Barcelona since childhood, said that his connection to his homeland never ceased.
"I have always been and will always be Argentine," the player said. "I am proud of my nationality, even though I don't live in Argentina. Barcelona is my home, the people here have given me a lot, but that doesn't change my feelings."
