Not Ramos: Messi names unexpected defender as toughest man-marker he has faced

January 15, 2020 By Ali M.

Topics: Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, Pablo Maffeo, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Girona, La Liga

Leo has crossed path with some of the best defenders in the world but opted for a surprise choice.

Lionel Messi is no stranger to the art of man-marking. Given his amazing dribbling skills and ability to both score goals and deliver them on a silver platter for his team-mates, several clubs have resorted to assigning players to follow the Argentine all over the pitch.

The six-time Ballon d’Or winner opened up about what it is like to be constantly man-marked, revealing that it is something he has become accustomed to. Nonetheless, the 32-year-old admitted he finds this tactic strange when talking to La Liga on DAZN.

However, the standout remark made by the Argentine came when he named the toughest man-marker he has faced. Despite locking horns with several tough Real Madrid players throughout his career, also clashing with other elite players in the Champions League, La Pulga named Pablo Maffeo of Girona as the most difficult.

When asked about the most difficult man-marker he has faced, Leo said (as per Goal): "Pablo Maffeo of Girona. That was intense!"

On the issue of man-marking, Messi said: "Man-marking doesn't bother me - you know that there will be tough matches and it can be strange to always have someone around you.

"In truth it hasn't happened to me that often. It doesn't bother me, but it is strange."

Another downside to Messi’s style of play is the constant fouling he is subjected to. Dribblers tend to get the rough treatment from defenders and Leo is no exception but the Argentine icon insists that this does not get to him.

"I've never been one who complains. I think physical contact and kicks are part of the game," he said.

"I get more annoyed when I play bad and I get a little more angry. But if I'm not [playing bad], it's not a problem, it's part of the game and I don't take it personally."

Messi should be back in action on Sunday when the league leaders host Granada. This will be their first game under new manager Quique Setien, as the Blaugrana look to end their two-game winless start to 2020.