Sergio Aguero has admitted he could follow the lead of Argentina captain Lionel Messi and retire from international football.
Aguero claims several players including himself are considering their international future after losing the final of the Copa America on penalties to Chile for the second straight year.
Argentina’s record goal-scorer Messi, who blazed over the crossbar in the shootout, announced his decision shortly after the final whistle in New Jersey on Sunday night.
“The likelihood is that Messi is not the only one that will leave the national team,” said Aguero, who lost his third final with Argentina, to Olenewspaper.
“There are several players like me that are evaluating whether or not to continue.”
The Manchester City forward, who replaced Gonzalo Higuain in the 70th minute, was hugely disappointed after Argentina failed to end their 23-year trophy drought at senior level.
Aguero, who won an Olympic gold in 2008, added: “One doesn’t want to think about it but at times, there are things that happen and the thought (of retiring) comes into your mind.
“Afterwards, it’s difficult to get it out.”
Aguero has played for Argentina’s senior side since September 2006 and empathised with five times World Player of the Year Messi.
“Unfortunately, the one that leaves most affected is Leo Messi after his penalty miss,” the 28-year-old Aguero said.
“This is the worst that I’ve seen him in the changing room.
“We are all affected and we will try to think about something else and move forward. Again, luck was not on our side.”
Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, who saved Lucas Biglia’s penalty before Francisco Silva scored the crucial spot-kick to help his country retain the Copa, had praise for his Barcelona team mate Messi.
“In my opinion, he is the best player in the world and in history,” Bravo told Marca. “They have to enjoy him, value him and understand him.
“This is a team work, when you win, everyone wins, and when you lose, everyone loses. We had some criticism directed at Chilean players in our first few games.
“Football is a team sport.”
