Pochettino backs Messi to be the best in the Premier League

Mauricio Pochettino is certain Lionel Messi has what it takes to be the best player in the Premier League amid links to Manchester City.

Messi wants out of Barcelona this summer and is currently trying to reach a settlement with the club to end his contract, with his agent and father, Jorge, heading negotiations in Catalonia.

Several top European clubs are all keeping tabs on the situation as they eye a move many deemed impossible not so long ago.

A reunion with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City has been touted as Messi’s most likely destination. The pair enjoyed great success together at Barcelona, and it appears Leo fancies a second round.

Lionel Messi Pep Guardiola
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Manchester City

Is it really happening? 🤯 pic.twitter.com/dLkv4cyebJ

— Goal (@goal) August 30, 2020

The prospect of having the record six-time Ballon d’Or winner gracing the Premier League, however, has been met with a mixed reaction.

While nobody can dispute his talents, Messi is 33 and could cost City €700m should Barcelona refuse to end his contract. There is also the fact he’s never played outside La Liga in his career.

But Pochettino has no doubts over his fellow Argentine’s potential impact in English football, or anywhere else for that matter.

“Anything can happen,” the former Tottenham boss told Ole.

“Messi will play wherever he wants; in Spain or the Premier League. He’s ready to be the best in any league.”

Further meetings between Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu and Jorge Messi will likely go ahead in the upcoming days after Wednesday’s stalemate.

Talks between the pair, which also had Barcelona director Javier Bordas and Leo’s brother Rodrigo in attendance, lasted two hours.