Real Madrid icon Raul has named Barcelona forward Lionel Messi as the greatest player he has ever played against. ‘He makes the impossible look easy.’
Raul was speaking in an interview with Sports Illustrated, with his comments then picked up and published by AS.
“I always liked the idea of one day playing in the United States,” the New York Cosmos forward said.
“My wife did too. New York is a beautiful and breath-taking city. The Cosmos Coach convinced me of the project.
“I already knew of the old Cosmos, Pele and Franz Beckenbauer, and apart from it being a club with history, it was an interesting project. So I thought, why not?”
Raul then moved on to discuss the current situation of Madrid, particularly the Champions League semi-final with Juventus, and his toughest opponents.
“Madrid are in a very good place. It will be a difficult match against Juventus, a good team with very talented players,” he noted.
“I hope to see Madrid in the final in Berlin.
“As for the League, it is more complicated. Barca just thrashed Getafe but there are still four games and anything is possible. I hope Madrid keep the pace until the last day.
“Paolo Maldini is the best defender I ever faced. A strong and smart player. I remember how difficult it was to play against him. He’s one of the best ever. His attitude on the pitch was impressive. A football idol.
“Oliver Khan is the best goalkeeper. The duels with him in the Champions League were very difficult.
“The best overall? Messi. I’m fortunate to have played with Zidane, Ronaldo, Figo, Cristiano…but Messi is much different.
“He makes everything look easy, even the impossible. You see him play and it’s like he’s playing on the street with his friends. Unbelievable.
“But in my earlier career, I would also say Ryan Giggs and Roberto Baggio.”
