DHAKA: Former Argentina boss Diego Maradona claims that Lionel Messi played "five times better" for him than current national coach Alejandro Sabella.

Sabella guided the Albiceleste to their first World Cup final in 24 years earlier in July, where they lost 1-0 to Germany.

However, Maradona, who coached Argentina between 2008 and 2010, argues that he does not get the best out of his players - and Messi in particular, reports goal.com

Speaking ahead of a friendly match at Rio Tercero, the 53-year-old stated to the press: "With me, Messi played five times better than with Sabella. Don't tell me that now he sacrifices himself for the team."

With Sabella's future remaining uncertain, Maradona suggested that Cesar Luis Menotti should take over, though he doubts whether the Argentina Football Association (AFA) would entrust him with the role.

"I don't like Sabella [for the job]," he remarked. "There’s someone forgotten: Menotti, who is not working because he fights against the mafia"

BDST: 1458 HRS, JUL 25 , 2014