5 things Lionel Messi must do to win the World Cup this year

The World Cup is drawing nearer every day, and Lionel Messi and Argentina will be hoping to bounce back from their previous misfortune in Brazil. They will be hoping to claim the most decorated trophy in the world of football when the tournament kicks off in Russia in June.

Lionel Messi, without question, needs to win the World Cup in his career. The major reason why many people do not accept that the Argentine as the greatest in history is because of his disappointments at the international stage.

He led the Albiceleste to the final of the tournament in 2014, but they were defeated by Germany in extra time.

After an embarrassing qualification campaign this term, Argentina sealed their qualification spot thanks to Messi, who single-handedly won their last match with a fantastic hat-trick to send them through.

Following his wonderful masterclass in the qualification stage, here's a look at 5 things Leo needs to do in order to win the World Cup in Russia:

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#5 Lionel Messi needs to be at his best

Not many can rival Messi when he is at his best

Not many players can be compared to the Barcelona legend when he is at his best. We have seen the best of Leo in recent years, leading Barcelona to glory after glory. His ability to decide the outcome of vital matches singlehandedly is unparalleled.

To win the world cup next year, Lionel Messi needs to be at his very best. He needs to be the hero for Argentina and must ensure he gives his all to the team. He needs to produce a masterclass in Russia if he truly wants to inspire this jaded Argentina side to glory.

#2 Win the hearts of the Argentina fans

Messi will need the backing of his countrymen in Russia

Following the recent crisis and struggles of Argentina, it is true that the fans are disappointed with the National team and the Argentina Football Association (AFA), with many fans criticising and withdrawing their support for the nation.

The influence of the fans in the sport cannot be overlooked as their motivation and support are essential to inspire the players to greatness. This is why they are usually termed 'The 12th Player' on the pitch. Behind every successful team, there are influential fans that give that extra strength to the players.

Therefore, Lionel Messi and Argentina need to win the hearts of the fans because they will be vital to their World Cup campaign this year. Their support and inspiration could prove to be pivotal for the team in the tournament.

#3 Be a true leader on the pitch

Messi needs to be more vocal on the pitch

As the leader and a superstar in the Argentina squad, Lionel Messi has a lot to do with the efforts of his teammates. The Barcelona star must ensure that everyone gives his best. His inspiration and motivation as a leader in the squad will have great effects on the performance of the whole squad.

The Argentine needs to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese led his team to the European Cup triumph in 2016. His inspiration was exceptional. Even in the final when the Real Madrid icon was injured, he kept motivating his teammates from the sidelines.

Therefore, Messi should not be silent on the pitch, he should be a source of inspiration for other members of the squad.

#4 Take the pressure off himself

Messi will be under immense pressure at Russia 2018

Considering Lionel Messi's greatness and achievements in the past few years, it is true that all eyes will be on the Argentina International in Russia this year. Moreover, the comparison with Argentina legend, Diego Maradona will also ensure that the playmaker will have a heavy burden to carry.

However, he needs to ensure that none of these expectations distracts him in the tournament. He must make sure that he takes the pressure off himself. This will enable him to feel free, relaxed and never lose his concentration.

#5 Learn to be individualistic

Messi will need to play a bit selfishly in the World Cup

Lionel Messi came very close to his dream trophy in 2014 only for him to be denied by Germany as a result of the poor performances of some of his teammates. Gonzalo Higuain was singled-out as the man who cost Argentina the World Cup as a result of his weak efforts in the final. Had Messi been a bit individualistic, he could have secured a goal for Argentina before the end of the 90 minutes.

Therefore, if Messi wants to lay his hands on the trophy in Russia, he needs to be a bit individualistic. He should learn from Diego Maradona who single-handedly won the competition for his nation some years ago.