'Hardest defender' Lionel Messi has ever faced says praise from Inter Miami superstar is 'like winning a trophy'

Real Mallorca full-back Maffeo was taking in a loan spell at Girona from Manchester City when facing eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi in September 2017. He suffered a 3-0 defeat to Barcelona on the day, but contained the obvious threat of Messi and prevented him from finding the target.

Argentine GOAT Messi - who is now plying his trade in MLS for Inter Miami - went on to say in 2020 when asked to pick out his toughest opponent: "Pablo Maffeo, when he was at Girona, was the hardest defender I’ve ever faced. I’ve never been one to complain. I believe that physical contact is part of football."

Such high praise came as a welcome surprise to Maffeo, who has told The Athletic: "It was very special that Leo would say that. For me, it’s like winning a trophy. It’s the best recognition from the best player in history. We lost that game, but the experience will always mark my life."

Maffeo went on to grace the same squad as Messi when earning a call-up by Argentina in November 2023, but a man that also qualifies for Spain and Italy has never made a senior international appearance. The 27-year-old added: "To share a dressing room with Messi is huge. Just training with him, you feel privileged. I was really happy there, they received me really well. [Lionel] Scaloni decided not to pick me, but I’ve no intention of changing, even if Spain or Italy call me. I’m still looking to keep playing well so Argentina might call me again."

Maffeo has been with Mallorca since 2021 - initially on loan before completing a permanent transfer - and has helped them to sixth spot in La Liga this season, while also facing Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals.