Argentina boss Alejandro Sabella has denied reports of a falling out with Lionel Messi, insisting he has a good relationship with the talisman.
The Barcelona forward told reports after their win over Bosnia on Monday that he preferred to play in a 4-3-3 formation – not the 5-3-2 that the Albicelestes had started the match in.
However, the Coach has claimed that the former Ballon d’Or winner is free to comment on such things, and has denied he was annoyed by the statement.
“I wasn't annoyed at all by Leo's quotes,” he told reporters.
“He was asked how he likes playing and he replied. He was very respectful.
“Messi has always said this, it's nothing new. He has always said he prefers to play 4-3-3 with [Angel] Di Maria pushing forward.
“We live in a climate of freedom and, in any case, I was the one who designated Messi for the press conference on Monday. I have complete trust in my players and they are free to express their opinions.
“If I told them what to say, I would be insecure.”
