Former Barcelona midfielder Deco believes the club owes a debt of gratitude to Lionel Messi for their success in recent years.
Deco has spoken with Mundo Deportivo to preview a match between his old Porto and Barca teammates, a friendly pitting against each other Champions League winners from 2004 and 2006.
The ex-Portugal international reflected on his time with La Blaugrana, discussing old teammates, as well as those with whom he played for his country.
“I enjoyed Leo and Cristiano Ronaldo, who do something that is very difficult to do today, but I had a great time with Ronaldinho,” Deco admitted.
“He wasn’t as decisive as Leo or Cristiano but he made playing fun. Samuel Eto’o as well, for me the best striker, or Andres Iniesta, the best midfielder.”
The interview returned to the subject of Messi and Deco said the Argentina captain is a player the likes of which will never be seen again.
“Barca should be grateful to Leo for life for what he has done,” he insisted.
“We will not see anyone else doing what Leo has done for the club and perhaps he is questioned because he has done so much.”
