David Villa: "Messi is the greatest footballer of all time"
His former teammate lavished further praise on the little Argentine and admits he will be keeping a close eye on this Saturday's match at the Camp Nou
Lionel Messi is continuously referred to as the greatest footballer of all time. He's won five Ballon d'Ors and at the age of 31, continues to lead the way out on the pitch. His form this season has been no different to the previous campaigns and he was applauded by the Real Betis fans for his genius recently.
"Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time and Barcelona owe their success due to his evolution. It's a more direct style than a passing one based on possession," declared his former teammate David Villa to Reuters, He now plays for Vissel Kobe alongside Andres Iniesta.
"It's hard for him to surprise you. He's the best. He's always shown the world that he's the best. Every time you get to watch him it's a pleasure."
One criticism which is often aimed at Messi is the lack of international silverware to match his embarrassment of riches at club level. "Obviously there's Pele, Maradona and players such as Cruyff. I didn't have the opportunity to watch them as I did Messi every day but, for me, Messi is the best."
The Barça style and system might have altered since Villa left the Camp Nou but he believes they are just as dangerous. This Saturday they face another of Villa's old teams, Atletico Madrid, in a crucial LaLiga fixture which could essentially decide who wins the league this year.
