Man United Legend Recounts How Leo Messi Left Him Devastated in 2009 Champions League Final

• Man United legend Nemanja Vidic has recounted how he was tormented by Lionel Messi
• The Serbian called the Champions League final in 2009 the most challenging game ever
• His defensive partner, Rio Ferdinand said Messi and Barca took their souls in that game

Nemanja Vidic has opened up about his nightmarish encounter with Lionel Messi in the 2009 UEFA Champions League final.

Messi’s God-given wizardry with the ball at his feet makes him a frightening proposition to any opposing defender, with Vidic being the latest to attest to the extra terrestrial powers of the Argentine phenom.

The legendary Manchester United defender recounted how he was left devastated by Messi in the 2009 UCL final held in Rome, Italy, where the now-PSG attacker 'took the soul' of the Red Devils' backline.

In said final, the Argentine inspired Barcelona to victory, including scoring an insane header.

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Recounting his encounter with the 2022 World Cup winner, the Serbian told Rio Ferdinand, on his YouTube channel:

"What was the issue, actually, they had possession for a long time, and obviously, Messi is not playing as a striker. He's playing as a false nine," Vidic began, as quoted by Tribuna.

Vidic spoke about how Messi was positioned among defenders in the middle, inviting players out of the zone so the wingers have space to run behind.

"And this is what you try to avoid and that question in your mind as a defender: should I go or stay? And I think that game in Rome was the longest game ever."

The pair crossed paths again in 2011, this time at the fabled Wembley Stadium, which ended in favour of Messi's team again, per the Guardian.

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Vidic picks between Ronaldo, Rooney

Vidic also chose between Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney in terms of who was more successful at Old Trafford, Sports Brief also reported.

The former Man United defender, who had the honour of sharing the locker room with the deadly duo, has bravely delved into the silent club debateseemingly delved into the silent debate.

While appearing on Rio Ferdinand's Vibe with Five podcast, Vidic showed a clear preference for Ronaldo, who he hailed for his sheer dedication.

Lineker insists Messi is 'incomparable'

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Gary Lineker explaining why there was not actually a debate between Ronaldo and Messi in the first place.

Many football fans believe the ever-divisive GOAT argument officially ended when the Argentine won the World Cup in December 2022.

However, the ex-England international, who was top scorer at the 1986 tournament, contended there was never a debate to begin with.