Argentina great Lionel Messi has dropped a major hint that he would be quitting international career after the World Cup, suggesting that he could end his Argentina career whether they fly or falter in Russia.

The 30-year-old originally retired from international duty in 2016 after Argentina lost their third major final in as many years. Starting with a defeat in the World Cup 2014, Argentina then lost Copa America finals to Chile in successive summers.

However, he reversed his decision six months later, helping his country qualify for the World Cup finals. However he warned the media that they risk losing him for good if they go back to their old ways of stamping on their achievements.

When asked if he will retire after the World Cup, Messi told Spanish newspaper Sport, "I don't know. It will depend how we do, how it ends. The fact we've lost three finals now has led to some complicated moments with the Argentine press due to the differences in seeing what it means to reach a final".

With 64 goals in 124 caps, Messi is Argentina's all-time top goal scorer and the third-highest appearance-maker. He remains the target of critics who believe the team have underachieved by failing to win a major trophy.