Not Pele or Maradona: Lionel Messi finally reveals footballing idol

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has snubbed Diego Maradona and Pele when asked about his footballing idol.

Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar last year, has admitted that Maradona was not his main source of inspiration as a kid.

Speaking to Adidas Football, the ex-Barcelona man picked compatriot Pablo Aimar as his idol.

"Apart from Maradona, who always comes first for Argentines, Pablo Aimar was the player I admired the most. I loved him very much."

Aimar, one of Lionel Scaloni's assistants, played a crucial role in Argentina's World Cup victory in Qatar last year. 

He is particularly remembered for becoming emotional when Messi scored a long-range goal against Mexico during the group stage.