Lionel Messi once revealed the eight-word phrase that he used to say to Andres Iniesta whenever a match got difficult.
Messi and Iniesta are two of Barcelona's greatest ever players, having enjoyed a stellar time together at the Camp Nou, especially under the guidance of Pep Guardiola.
During his 22-year stay at the club, Iniesta made a total of 674 appearances for the first team, scoring 57 goals.
The Spaniard lifted nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues among other trophies.
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On the international stage, Iniesta was the hero in 2010 when he netted Spain's winner in the World Cup final against the Netherlands.
Messi has always been one of Iniesta's biggest fans. In an extract from the book The Artist: Being Iniesta, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner discussed his relationship with Iniesta, as well as his talents on the pitch.
The Argentine legend said: "I always picture him with the ball at his feet. That's the way I have got used to seeing him. He does everything well, with simplicity.
"At times, it may look like he's not doing anything, but in fact he's doing it all. Everything is different with Andrés. The hardest thing to do in football is to make it look like everything is easy, effortless, and that's Andrés."
Messi also revealed the phrase he would say to Iniesta when a match got slightly difficult.
He continued: "On the pitch, I like him to be near me, especially when the game takes a turn for the worse, when things are difficult. That's when I say to him: 'Come closer, I want you by my side.'
"He takes control and responsibility; he leads the team. In the finals, Andrés, Xavi, Busquets and I have always liked to come together to give us a numerical advantage, to control the ball and the game."
The Inter Miami star added: "We've experienced very happy moments together and I particularly remember an emotional embrace at the Bernabeu after a goal. That was a lovely gesture from him."
After leaving Barcelona, Iniesta played for Vissel Kobe and Emirates before calling time on his career in 2024.
Topics: Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Barcelona, Football
Marcus Chan