Not many people can say that they butted heads with the best attackers in the world, year after year, but that does apply to Juanfran.
The veteran full-back has been talking ahead of of Atletico Madrid's crucial game at home to Barcelona after the international break, and thinks that Barcelona's captain is a set apart in talent and attitude.
"For me, Messi is the best, I've always said it. He and Cristiano have marked differences, but Leo has always had a little more. I respect him very much." Juanfran said.
"On the field you can kick him, he doesn't complain much. Neymar, on the other hand, is the opposite of Messi."
Barcelona, who currently sit in first position in the LaLiga table will look to bounce back from a 3-4 home defeat to Real Betis when they face Juanfran and co at the Wanda Metropolitano on 25th November.