Lionel Messi Talks Mindset & Preparing for La Liga Return as Part of adidas' 'Mindfulness Matters' Series

Lionel Messi has spoken to adidas about the importance of mental strength and how he's preparing for La Liga's return as part of their 'Mindfulness Matters' series.

Mindfulness Matters is the latest from adidas' #hometeam, setting out to keep athletes motivated and connected during difficult times. This episode features Messi and how he's overcome these unprecedented circumstances based on his own unique experience.

In the interview, which you can also find on the adidas website, the football icon recognised the importance of mental toughness following the three-month postponement of the Spanish top-flight and the Copa American being pushed back until 2021.

"Some say this mental strength is 40, 50, or even 60% of our sport. I suppose it also depends on each specific player. But I do think it's very important, and I see a growing focus on this sort of preparation in the world of professional sports," Messi said.

The Argentine also commented on his personal disappointment regarding the cancellation South America's premier tournament this summer - one he's yet to win despite reaching the final on three occasions.

"The Copa was going to be a big occasion for me this year, and I was extremely excited to compete in it again. It hit me hard when I learned it would be postponed, but I completely understood."

Nevertheless, with La Liga getting the green light to return to action on 8 June, Messi spoke about the prospect of playing without fans, saying it "brings about a whole set of challenges".

"The group preparation is the same as for any other game. But individually, each person needs to prepare and visualise playing without fans, because it is very strange," he continued.

Concluding with a positive message, the 32-year-old notes: “We can’t dwell on what we’re leaving behind this year. It’s better to look to the future. To getting back to the daily training routine, to seeing teammates, to playing the first games.

"I'm sure it will be strange at first, but I’m eager to start competing again."

The #hometeam is adidas’ collaboration-based response to keep hearts, minds and bodies healthy during tough times. For more information about adidas #hometeam, visit adidas.com/hometeam.