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Pablo Maffeo has expressed his joy after hearing that Lionel Messi named him the hardest defender he has ever faced.
Messi faced Maffeo, who had a loan spell at Girona during the Argentine playing days in Spain.
In September 2017, the Real Mallorca full-back faced eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi in Laliga.
Despite the fact that Barcelona lost 3-0 that day, he managed to minimise Messi's clear threat and kept him from finding the target.
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10:20 - 10.01.2025
'It's impossible' - Mascherano rules out Neymar joining Messi, Suarez at Inter Miami
Inter Miami manager Mascherano has revealed reasons why the club can't sign Neymar to join Messi and Suarez.
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07:42 - 08.01.2025
You need to shut up and learn from Messi — Ruud Gullit to Real Madrid star
Netherlands legend Ruud Gullit believes one Real Madrid star must follow the example set by Argentina captain Lionel Messi.
Pablo speaks on Messi’s comment
In 2020, Messi was asked in an interview to pick the toughest defender he has ever played against in his career.
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The Argentine said, "Pablo Maffeo, when he was at Girona, was the hardest defender I’ve ever faced. I’ve never been one to complain. I believe that physical contact is part of football."
Maffeo was pleasantly surprised by the high compliments, as he told The Athletic. "It was very special that Leo would say that. For me, it’s like winning a trophy.
“It’s the best recognition from the best player in history. We lost that game, but the experience will always mark my life."
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Maffeo later played alongside the Ballon d’Or winner after being called up by Argentina in November 2023.
The 27-year-old continued, "To share a dressing room with Messi is huge. Just training with him, you feel privileged.
“I was really happy there, they received me really well. [Lionel] Scaloni decided not to pick me, but I’ve no intention of changing, even if Spain or Italy call me. I’m still looking to keep playing well so Argentina might call me again."
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