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Angel Di Maria says Argentina don't always need to rely on "alien" Lionel Messi as the South Americans prepare to head for the Qatar World Cup.

The showpiece in the Middle East gets underway on Sunday with both players ooking at their final hurrah in the tournament.

It will be Di Maria's fourth appearance for Argentina at the World Cup, while it'll be Messi's fifth outing as they go in search of the ultimate prize.

Di Maria is well aware of the importance of Messi to the international team and his recent form for PSG suggests he could be ready to go out with a bang. But Juventus star Di Maria  says Argentina have other weapons and do not always look to the 35-year-old to deliver results.

Speaking to La Nacion, Di Maria said: "For me, being by Leo's side is everything. He's the best in the world, an alien, and I won't get tired of saying it. And I'll say it again: playing with Leo is the best thing that happened to me in my career. 

"We have spent many years together in the national team and I was even able to play in the same team with him, because seeing him every day is much nicer.

"I always try to connect with him, look for him, but also understanding that, although he can solve the play, you don't always have to give it to him. Or you have to think about when it should be given."

Argentina are the second favourites for the tournament and are in the midst of a 35-match unbeaten.

Lionel Scaloni's men should march through qualifying Group C which pits them against Poland, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. 

However, the 11/2 shots, are likely to meet South American rivals Brazil in the semi-final in a repeat of the 2021 Copa America final.

That was won by Argentina with Di Maria scoring the only goal in Rio de Janeiro in July 2021.