Lionel Messi was incredulous after his dismissal in Argentina’s third-place play-off win over Chile on Saturday, yet Dani Alves refused to agree with his former teammate’s claim that the tournament had been corrupt in favour of the host nation.
Alves played a key role in Brazil’s first Copa America title since 2007, winning the player of the tournament award for his performances and doing his chances of finding a new club this summer no harm at all.
“I can only say that I don’t agree with him [Messi],” Alves explained in the mixed zone on Sunday evening.
“We have worked a lot to achieve this success, but I can understand that he’s upset.
“I don’t agree with him that this Copa America has been bought.
“The work we’ve had to put in to win has been incredible.”
Alves is currently a free agent after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired, and the 36-year-old will now focus on finding a new team after winning the 40th trophy of his professional career.