Lionel Messi: Argentina Star ‘Slapped’ by Teammate Rodrigo De Paul During Playful Training Session

• Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo de Paul was filmed asking Lionel Messi if he(Messi) was stupid during a training session of Argentina
• De Paul then slapped Messi lightly before the two were separated by Messi's former teammate Leandro Paredes
• The issue didn't seem major as the duo continued laughing as they step up preparations for the World Cup

Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul shared a light moment during Argentina's training session in Miami.

The incident ended with De Paul landing a soft slap on Messi's cheek before Leandro Paredes stepped in and separated them.

Argentina are currently in the United States as they make last-minute preparations for the World Cup. The Albiceleste will be heading to Qatar as a strong favourite, having dominated for the last two years.

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Messi put on a show against Honduras in an international friendly by grabbing a brace. Lautaro Martinez scored the other goal in a 3-0 win for Lionel Scaloni's men.

But prior to that game at the Hard Rock Stadium, Messi was involved in a tiff with De Paul that didn't appear that serious. Daily Mail reports that De Paul was taped saying,

Are you stupid, Leo?

The two then laugh as Paredes steps in to control them. De Paul and Messi have grown close since the latter's call-up to the national team setup in 2018.

They will be hoping to lead the side to World Cup triumph in Qatar after winning two trophies in the space of one year.

Argentina will face Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland in group stage action.