i think in that case you want someone who gets fouled a lot, nothing fucks up packed defenses more than nervous defending, when you're scared to get carded again your margin of error increases.
The issue with messi is because of the lack of a true midfield architect, he has to drop back to midfield and thus is neutralized before he gets even close to dangerous territory. like i said if argentina had a veron or roman in this team theyd be unstoppable imo