Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini says you just have to pray when you are up against Barcelona star Lionel Messi.
Messi got the better of Chiellini in last season’s Champions League final and the 31-year-old defender said he just cannot be defended against, although he does know a trick to keep Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo quiet.
“Knowing all about your opponents is fundamental, even the individuals,” he said at an event in Turin, as quoted by Eurosport.
“It helps you understand their characteristics. Cristiano Ronaldo is a player you mark by trying to prevent him from coming inside on his right foot. As for Messi, you just make the sign of the cross and pray.
“Joking aside, each player has his own characteristics and you’ve got to make this kind of analysis.”
Losing to Barcelona last June is one of Chiellini’s biggest regrets in his 11 years with the Bianconeri.
“We could have won it,” he said. “We had the chances and we could have done better. It wasn’t a perfect game from us, but if we get another opportunity, we will be ready for it.”
That opportunity could arise this season if they can beat Bayern Munich in Bavaria next Wednesday. That fixture comes during a period which Chiellini defines as crucial for Juve’s aspirations.
“We’ve caught up, but we’re not totally satisfied yet,” he said. “The truth is we’re very close to the finishing line, but we’ve not done anything yet. Everything can change in the next ten days.”
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