Featured Image Credit: Clank! / YouTube
Topics: Lionel Messi, Barcelona, Argentina
Josh Lawless
Lionel Messi came up with a surprise selection when asked about the toughest opponent he has faced.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has come up against the very best of the best in his glittering career, often making world-class players look very ordinary.
So many legendary players have been rinsed by Messi for club and country over the years.
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But back in September 2017 Messi had a serious battle that he still remembers to this day.
Barca played Catalan neighbours Girona and ran out 3-0 winners.
Messi had scored 11 goals in five games going into the clash but was unable to add to his tally in this touting at Estadi Montilivi.
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And that was after a sensational man-marking job from Pablo Maffeo during the game.
Maffeo was on loan at Girona from sister club Manchester City at the time and Messi praised the defender for the job he did on him.
"Man-marking doesn't bother me - you know that there will be tough matches and it can be strange to always have someone around you,” Messi told DAZN,
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via Four Four Two.
“In truth, it hasn't happened to me that often. It doesn't bother me, but it is strange.
“Pablo Maffeo of Girona [was the toughest man-marker]. That was intense!
“I've never been one who complains. I think physical contact and kicks are part of the game."
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According to Maffeo, the two did have conversations during the game - with Maffeo stating that the Barcelona legend is a "good person".
After a spell with Stuttgart, Maffeo is once again plying his trade in La Liga with Mallorca.
And last year he had the pleasure of training with Messi after being called up to the Argentina squad by Lionel Scaloni back in November 2023.
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Maffeo played for Spain at youth level but is eligible to play for Argentina through his mother.
The 27-year-old has not yet committed to a country though as he did not make an appearance in the World Cup qualifiers he was selected for.