Messi makes heavily delayed Copa America Best 11, but who else joins him?

In a delay that felt longer than some matches, the Copa América 2024 Team of the Tournament (Best 11) was finally revealed.

The announcement took 16 days—only eight days less than the entire tournament! But as they say, good things come to those who wait and Messi fans won't be disappointed.

Who's in and who's not?

The lineup features some familiar faces, including Lionel Messi, who made it into the best 11. But does he really deserve the spot? That’s a question left open for debate. Messi, playing in his seventh and final Copa América, scored one goal and helped lead Argentina to their 16th title.

The Barcelona legend was joined by teammates like Emiliano Martínez, Lautaro Martínez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Cristian Romero, making Argentina the most represented country in the selection.

Surprisingly, the list wasn't just an Argentinian showcase. James Rodríguez, known for his dazzling plays, made a comeback by leading Colombia to their first final in 23 years. The talented number 10 contributed one goal and six assists, the highest since 2011.

Another notable inclusion was Raphinha from Brazil, who was one of the few shining stars in an otherwise underwhelming Brazilian campaign. His stunning free-kick goal against Colombia was a highlight of the tournament.

The team also featured players from Ecuador, Uruguay, and even Canada, represented by Alistair Johnston, who made a mark in the North American team's debut appearance.

Copa America 2024 best 11 complete list

The delayed announcement of the best 11 has sparked some chuckles and grumbles alike. The Tactical Study Group took their sweet time, almost as long as the tournament itself, to finalize the list.

The full lineup includes:

• Emiliano Martínez (Argentina) - Conceded just one goal and was pivotal in Argentina's penalty shootout win over Ecuador.
• Alistair Johnston (Canada) - A standout in Canada’s impressive fourth-place finish.
• Cristian Romero (Argentina) - Formed a formidable defensive duo with Lisandro Martínez.
• Davinson Sánchez (Colombia) - Solid as a rock, both defensively and offensively.
• Piero Hincapié (Ecuador) - A key player in Ecuador’s defence.
• Rodrigo De Paul (Argentina) - The engine of the Argentine midfield.
• Manuel Ugarte (Uruguay) - A young talent who showed maturity beyond his years.
• James Rodríguez (Colombia) - The playmaker who dazzled with his assists.
• Lionel Messi (Argentina) - The magician who still has some tricks up his sleeve.
• Lautaro Martínez (Argentina) - The tournament's top scorer with five goals.
• Raphinha (Brazil) - The standout performer in Brazil’s underwhelming campaign.