'Put him at left-back': recalling how Pep Guardiola perfectly summed up Messi's football genius

Lionel Messi would make a perfect defender, according to Pep Guardiola.

"Messi wins the ball playing as the false No.9. If you put him at left-back, he would be just as good," Guardiola told reporters in 2013 (h/t Sports Mole).

"He is the best defender in the world."

These words aren't just a compliment: in fact, Messi was never trying to dodge defensive duties at Barcelona and took part in pressing the opposition just like everyone else.

Of course, these days Leo is not as active on the pitch, besides he is playing in a much weaker league. So he can focus completely on scoring goals and assisting his teammates.

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