Even when Barcelona don't play like the top team that they are, the threat that Lionel Messi poses can never be overlooked. Stopping the five-time Ballon d'Or winner from working his way past defenders is one challenge -- and it's a big one -- but his influence on other footballers is undeniable.
PSV Eindhoven winger Hirving Lozano has spoken about the impact that the Argentine magician had on him growing up, as well as the interest that he attracted from the Catalans over the summer.
"Thanks to God I had a good [World Cup] and many teams asked about me," he said (via the Daily Express).
"My agent told me that Barca asked about me and it would be a dream to play there in the future. For now, the important thing is focusing on PSV and enjoying it here as much as possible.
"It will be very complicated: they are a great team, with great players, we will try to do the best we can.
"I had several posters in my room, one of Barcelona. [Lionel] Messi has always been a great player and he is fearsome.
"For me, he's the best in the world, we'll have to see how we can stop him."
The 23-year-old will be travelling with PSV to the Camp Nou for their Champions League clash with Barcelona tomorrow.
If he has a dream of playing with the Argentine -- there will be many who share that in common -- then he has the opportunity to face off against Messi and show why Barcelona should rekindle their interest in him.
"It's a dream come true [to play against him]," he said. "I never thought about it, but thank God I have been given the chance.
"It's an important game for me and I want to make the most of it."
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