“Messi is a class above the rest. I’ve never seen a player like him in my life. He’s immensely superior and as Pep says, he dominates all areas of the game. He’s fast, brave, strong – he’s got everything! A player like him comes along every 50 years.”
Xavi on the man he considers to be the world’s best player
“It would not be a big drama for me if I finished my career without winning the Champions League. I really want to pick up the trophy, but nobody will question my ability or achievements if I don’t. George Weah and the Brazilian Ronaldo never won the Champions League, but it didn’t stop them being remembered as really great players.”
Didier Drogba
“I can assure you that Giuseppe Rossi never nutmegged me – if he had, he wouldn't be able to walk anymore!”
Giorgio Chiellini responds to his Italy team-mate’s post-training session claims
