Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, has faced numerous formidable defenders throughout his illustrious 20-year career. Despite the many challenges he has encountered, one name that stands out as an unexpected adversary is Pablo Maffeo, a right-back for Mallorca.
In a 2020 interview, Messi identified Maffeo as one of the toughest defenders he has ever faced. At the time, Maffeo was playing for Girona, having spent part of his early career on loan from Manchester City. Messi’s encounter with Maffeo occurred during a LaLiga match in 2017, when Maffeo’s defensive prowess left a lasting impression on the Argentine superstar.
Although Barcelona won the match 3-0, Messi struggled to make an impact and did not score, largely due to Maffeo’s relentless marking. Messi later described Maffeo’s performance as “intense” and acknowledged the challenge he presented. Speaking to DAZN, Messi said, “Pablo Maffeo of Girona was the toughest [defender I’ve faced]. That was intense! I’ve never been one who complains. I think physical contact and kicks are part of the game.”
For Maffeo, who was only 20 at the time, the strategy was straightforward: stay close to Messi and limit his opportunities. Maffeo recalled the encounter, stating, “When you mark Messi, you have to think that he is a normal person, he has two legs like all of us, and to be focused. Messi told me: ‘I’ve got you here for the whole day’ and I said: ‘You’re the best in the world, I’m not going to leave you.’”
Despite the rigorous challenge from Maffeo, Messi ended the LaLiga season with an impressive tally of 34 goals in 36 appearances, leading Barcelona to the league title. Maffeo’s performance against Messi did not secure him a more prominent role at Manchester City, but his career continued to flourish as he moved to Stuttgart and later returned to Girona and joined Mallorca.
Maffeo’s defensive skills eventually caught the attention of Argentina’s national team, leading to his first call-up in November 2023. Although he did not feature in the matches, the opportunity to train with Messi was a significant milestone in his career. Reflecting on the experience, Maffeo expressed his excitement, saying, “To be able to share training, dressing room and training camp with the best footballer in history is great. I’ve already experienced it against him, now with him… well, it’s awesome.”
Maffeo’s impressive defensive display against one of the best players in the world highlights the unpredictable nature of football, where even the most unexpected challengers can leave a lasting impact on legends like Messi.
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