Roma defender Kostas Manolas admits “there’s no way to stop” Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.
The Giallorossi will face the Blaugrana at Camp Nou tomorrow, and will have to try and limit the man who many see as the best player in the world.
“[Pep] Guardiola is right when he says there’s no way to stop him,” Manolas told Il Giornale.
Roma defender Kostas Manolas admits “there’s no way to stop” Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.
The Giallorossi will face the Blaugrana at Camp Nou tomorrow, and will have to try and limit the man who many see as the best player in the world.
“[Pep] Guardiola is right when he says there’s no way to stop him,” Manolas told Il Giornale.
“Even if you could somehow fix that and block him, there are 10 others than can hurt you. Of course Barcelona are something else without the Argentine, we’ll have to do our best.
“In addition they no longer have Neymar. I really admire [Gerard] Pique, he’s an elegant defender who plays the ball with his feet. It’s no coincidence he’s been there 10 years.”
Three years ago the Lupi were thrashed 6-1 in Catalonia…
“Tactically we got that game wrong, we pushed too high up and they found space easily. Now we won’t have to go there with the fear of conceding so many goals.
“We respect Barcelona, but we’re aware of our strength.
“We showed in the Group Stage that we’re a good team, now we have a double-header against a very strong opponent. They’re favourites, but when you play 11 v 11 you never know.”
The Greek international was then asked which teams he believes have the best chance of going all the way.
“Barcelona, Real [Madrid] and Manchester City have the most chance,” Manolas replied.
“I think Juventus have a chance too, they’re used to playing games of this level.”
Manolas was also asked about the death of Davide Astori, his former Roma teammate.
“His death was something absurd, he was an incredible lad and a serious professional. I used to room with him in pre-season and at away games, he always had a smile on his face and that’s how I want to remember him.
“That’s why, like with my grandfather, I didn’t go to his funeral. In the first game I played with him, he complimented me.
“When I scored after his death I raised my hands to the sky, I’ll miss him in my heart.”