Could Lionel Messi have been an NFL wide receiver? Baltimore Ravens star DeAndre Hopkins answers that question after taking inspiration from Argentine No.10

The Argentine’s diminutive stature would likely have worked against him had he tried his hand at a different kind of football. Not all receivers are towering giants, though, that boast Cristiano Ronaldo-esque leaping power.

Slot receivers such as Wes Welker - who played alongside Tom Brady with the New England Patriots - have shown that size is no barrier to success. Messi could, therefore, have enjoyed as much success scoring touchdowns as he has done goals.

Five-time Pro Bowler Hopkins, who graced the Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs last season, told FIFA’s official website when asked if Messi would have been as productive catching balls as kicking them: “Oh, for sure, wholeheartedly. With his footwork, I think he would have been a great receiver. I can't say how long he would have played taking these hits that we take, but I think he definitely could have played.”

Hopkins, who joined the NFL ranks when being drafted in the first round of the 2013 Draft by the Houston Texans, has worn No.10 in homage to Messi. Quizzed on why he is such a fan of the South American GOAT, Hopkins added: “It’s his unorthodox play, his style, how he's not a guy that’s vocal about who he is... Just everything about him, his whole energy and aura.

“I felt like he plays with an underdog mentality, even though he is one of the best, and that was similar to my game coming out of college. I feel like my style of playing and who I am is like Messi, so why not pay tribute and make my number like one of the best of all time.”

Hopkins is preparing for the start of the new NFL season, as he embraces a fresh challenge with the Baltimore Ravens, while Messi is plying his trade in the United States with MLS side Inter Miami - where a new contract for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner continues to be mooted.