Lionel Messi has revealed which Argentinian legends inspired him to become the world famous footballer that he is today.
The Barcelona superstar gave an open and honest exclusive interview with Coach Magazine with a range of topics covering his greatest challenges, his FIFA 17 rating and his rivalry with Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
It is the former stars that he aspired to be, however, that is perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Messi's interview, and the 29-year-old divulged which two ex-players he held in the highest esteem growing up back in his homeland.
Lionel #Messi is the epitome of the expression 'practice makes perfect.' pic.twitter.com/J1aX2r6QXK
"Of course I admired Maradona, he was a real inspiration for me. Also when Pablo Aimar started to break through, I used to really enjoy watching him play" the eight time La Liga winner said.
Throughout his 12-year first-team playing career, Messi has encountered countless footballers from English football on the continental and international stage. Asked to state which British star he considered the best he'd played against, the La Masia academy graduate labelled one particular player as the stand-out candidate.
He continued: "Over the years we have faced many British teams in Europe and come up against many good players, but I have always had a big respect for Wayne Rooney. He has played at the highest level for many years and is one of the special players of the generation."
Messi left Argentina for a place in Barcelona's famed youth academy at the tender age of 14 - a move that he credits as a "difficult" time in his life.
The four-time Ballon d'Or winnerdid, though, disclose which one individual above any other had helped him settle in Catalonia.
The said: "It was difficult for me leaving my country, but I became good friends with Cesc Fabregas at La Masia and we are still good friends now."
La Albiceleste's captain was also quizzed on what motivates him to continue plying his trade at the highest level possible, as well as what one lesson he had learned from all of his years playing football.
Messi added: "To win trophies for my club and country. That is why I never look back at my success. I can do that when I am retired, for now it is about looking forward to more success.
"(Football taught me) that I hate to lose. It does not just affect me for a few hours after the game, but for longer.
"I can not stand the feeling to lose. You can use that to make sure you give everything you need to to win."
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