Manchester United and Brazil midfielder Casemiro has sung praises of Argentina captain Lionel Messi.

"I didn't get to watch Maradona or Pele play, but I enjoyed watching the three greatest players of my generation: Messi, Cristiano and Neymar," Casemiro said in a recent chat with Placar.

The 36-year-old Messi and Casemiro, 31, clashed for six years representing Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively.

Casemiro insisted that if 'you are a football fan' then you should be a fan of the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner.  "Messi made an era and he was always competitive with Barcelona and Argentina and there was no way out. "Whoever loves football will love Messi. It was a pleasure to play against him."

"He is someone who needs no comment you can only admire."

Casemiro — despite his admiration for the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner — admitted that he did not watch the 2022 World Cup final as the Argentine led his country to a World Cup triumph.

"No, I didn't watch it, and frankly, after our loss, I think I didn't watch football for a month, and I didn't turn on the TV. It was very painful. "One of my best friends, Licha, won the tournament. I congratulate him with all respect and appreciation. If there is someone worthy of it from my friends, it is Lisandro," he added.