Argentina Legend Rejects Paulo Dybala As Successor to Lionel Messi

• Paulo Dybala's claim as Lionel Messi's heir in the Argentina national team has been questioned
• Despite the questions raised about his mentality, Dybala has been on fire for AS Roma after Argentina's World Cup triumph
• The 29-year-old played a limited role in Argentina's journey to its third World Cup crown after beating France on post-match penalties

Legendary Argentina forward Mario Kempes has questioned the school of thought suggesting Paulo Dybala as the successor of Lionel Messi in the national team.

Dybala was once touted as the heir-apparent to Leo Messi's throne in the Argentina national team owing to the similarities in their style of play.

However, Kempes, who played a starring role for Argentina in winning its first World Cup in 1978, argues the former Juventus star must change his mentality to reach his full potential.

He further added that the 29-year-old must have more confidence in his abilities if he is to replicate Messi's role for the reigning World Cup champions.

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“Until he believes that he is the intelligent player, that he is different, that he has ability and very good vision to play, I don't think he can become the successor of Messi,” Kempes told TNT Sports via Sportskeeda.

The 68-year-old admitted playing alongside Messi could be herculean and fun in equal measure.

“Playing alongside Messi is complicated and beautiful at the same time. Just like with Maradona, you don't know where they're going to go."

Kempes warns Messi

Meanwhile, Mario Kempes has also weighed in on the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to his boyhood club Newell's Old Boys Club amid the uncertainty surrounding his future.

Messi has entered the final few months of his current PSG deal, thus making him eligible to speak with any club.

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Sharing his opinion on Messi returning to his boyhood club, Kempes believes it is not an entirely brilliant idea.

Dybala chooses celebration over sleep

Paulo Dybala has described the ensuing days after winning the FIFA World Cup for Argentina as incredible, Sports Brief earlier reported.

Despite a limited role in this year’s World Cup tournament, the AS Roma forward’s successful penalty kick proved crucial in determining Argentina’s historic win over France.

Dybala revealed that he and his Argentina teammates slept for just five hours following their amazing reception back home in Argentina, Roma Press reports.