Lionel Messi compared to Michael Jordan by former Barcelona team-mate Ousmane Dembele as PSG's Ballon d'Or favourite reveals 'The Last Dance' inspiration

France international Dembele played alongside fellow World Cup winner Messi for four years at Camp Non between 2017 and 2021. He got to see first hand quite how special the Argentine GOAT is.

Dembele has sought to take inspiration from how Messi goes about his business, with the Frenchman now in a position himself where a prestigious Golden Ball could be claimed - having become a talismanic presence for Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.

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Dembele has been discussing the sporting superstars that he looks up to, with Messi being joined in that category by basketball icon Jordan - who saw ‘The Last Dance’ documentary detail how he led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA Finals triumphs.

Speaking to France Football, Dembele said of his idols: "I didn't know Michael Jordan, but I saw The Last Dance, and it's incredible. To think that before there were no social networks and yet he managed to transcend generations. What he did with the Bulls is fantastic.

"And I grew up watching FC Barcelona so, naturally, Leo Messi. For me, he's the greatest. He's a player who inspires me, he's unique! I'm very happy and proud to have played with him."

Messi continues to inspire millions around the world as he stars for MLS side Inter Miami, with Dembele potentially set to be reunited with his former Barcelona team-mate at the FIFA Club World Cup as PSG try and add a global crown to their continental Champions League title.