Lionel Messi has not played well for PSG this season. Only 11 goals in 34 matches in all competitions. Does the number match the name of the Argentine star? Of course not.
But we have to look at the 34-year-old Messi. At this age many people take off their boots or the thought of retiring comes. But Messi is still playing and the Argentine forward is just as dangerous as before, reminded Italy coach Roberto Mancini before La Finalisima.
Argentina will face Italy in La Finalisima at 12:45 pm Bangladesh time today at Wembley, the famous ground in London.
Convebl, the governing body of South American football, and UEFA, the governing body of European football, had long ago agreed to host matches between the two teams that won the Euro and Copa America. With this, after 29 years, football fans are going to watch the third installment of 'Conmebol-UEFA Cup of Champions' competition.
The match was also held twice in 1985 and 1993. In 1975, Euro-winning France lost to Copa champions Uruguay. Eight years later, in 1993, Argentina lost to then-European champions Denmark. After almost three decades, Mancini spoke about Messi at a press conference yesterday before this year's 'Finalisima'.
The Italian coach still considers the seven-time Footballer of the Year to be "the best in the world". "In my opinion, he is probably the best in the world. In Italy we spent many years with Diego Maradona. Messi is just like him. He is one of the best footballers in history.
Mancini also tried to explain why Messi could not do well for PSG this time. After leaving the Champions League last 16, Messi was the victim of two supporters in the league.
Manchini explained, 'He hasn't scored much this season. Probably a factor as to why they're doing so poorly. She needs more time. But in my opinion, he is the best in the world. Tomorrow (tonight) we have to be attentive. Because, he (Messi) can change the game in one second.
Defender Leonardo Bonucci is responsible for keeping Messi bottled up to defend Italy. Before facing Wembley, the Juventus center-back also praised Messi, saying, "I have had the good fortune to play against Messi several times. He has won the Ballon d'Or many times. In other words, he has shown his ability ... It is difficult to find words of praise for his quality player. He is one of the best footballers with Cristiano Ronaldo. He must be respected. Argentina team and we have to stop him.