‘Leo would not be able to do what I did in Napoli’

Lionel Messi finally got the chance to play in the stadium where fellow Argentina great Diego Maradona achieved some of his most memorable exploits, when Barcelona faced Napoli at the San Paolo Stadium in the Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday.

After the 1-1 draw at Naples, Maradona was asked if Messi could surpass what he did in Italy if he was to sign for the Gli Azzurri, a dream of the club president. The former Argentine player was blunt in his response.

"Messi arrived at San Paolo in decline; Messi has not lived the life I have. Leo could play extraordinarily in Naples, but he would not be able to do what I did. Let's be clear about that," Maradona said.

"I wish the Neapolitans could have a Messi, even though San Paolo is Diegoed," he added.