We must allow Messi to enjoy things - Nicolas Tagliafico

The 26-year-old recently extended his stay with Dutch champions Ajax after a wonderful performance last season.

Ahead of his country, Argentina’s Copa America campaign in Brazil, Nicolas Tagliafico spoke to Goal.com expressing his opinion on his side’s chances and about his performance in the domestic season in the Eredivisie with Ajax.

Argentina, who have been one of the most unluckiest teams in the Cup, having previously lost thrice in the final, will be seeking redemption for their past losses. Lionel Messi, who arguably helped the Albiceleste single-handedly reach the final stages of the Cup will again be the man in focus as he looks to finally end his trophy drought with the national team.

However, Tagliafico insists that this time the pressure will not be only Messi but the team as a whole. The full-back, while speaking to Goal.com said, “It is hard to play against him and a plus watching him in your team. We must work hard to avoid overloading him with pressure and allow him to enjoy things.”

Tagliafico was a part of the Ajax team which went through an extraordinary campaign last season, winning the Eredivisie and reaching the Champions League semi-finals after defeating the likes of European heavyweights such as Real Madrid and Juventus.

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The 26 year-old attracted several flight clubs in the transfer market but chose to extend his stay with the Amsterdam-based outfit for at least a year.

“Together we decided to stay one more season and leave next season if it has to happen,” said the Argentine international.

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"We are now one of the strongest teams in Europe after reaching the Champions League semi-final. I am so happy in Amsterdam, the people love me and I feel so good,” he added.

Tagliafico will next be seen playing with Argentina in their opening fixture of the Copa America, versus Colombia on 16th June.