‘Neymar’s a genius & Messi’s my idol!’

Paris Saint-Germain forward Lucas Moura has spoken of what it means to play against Barcelona pair Neymar and Lionel Messi.

Lucas is in line to feature for PSG against Barca in this week’s Champions League quarter-final first-leg and has spoken to AS ahead of the tie.

“It’s always nice to play against Barca. I don’t know if I’ll get all the game,” he remarked.

“It will be a challenge and a very close encounter. We are very excited.

“Neymar is a football genius. I’m happy to call him my friend and I’m happy for the season he’s having. I love to see how he plays for Barca. We’ll need to pay close attention to him.

“Messi? He was always my idol. I think he’s the best player in the world and is back above everyone else.

“It will be very difficult to play against him. We’ll have to work hard to stop him. If we do we’ll be closer to victory. The two teams are evenly matched. We’ll see who’s the favourite.”

Lucas was asked about the rivalry between Brazil and Argentina and said it can’t preclude praising Messi for his talent.

“You have to be realistic and Messi is the best. Of course there is a rivalry between Brazil and Argentina, but we’re a football country,” he argued.

“So when players are great, we have to recognise it.”

Tags Lionel Messi Lucas Moura Neymar Paris Saint-Germain
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