Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has jumped to the defence of Barcelona star Lionel Messi.
Messi has been heavily criticised as Barca have suffered a form slide over the past month.
Former Barca coach Guardiola said: "I've never seen a player like him and I don't think there will be another one like him. My respect for him and my opinion will remain the same, regardless of whatever ups and downs the team goes through.
"I think too highly of him to let my opinion be influenced by how well he or the team are doing at any given moment or whether they're winning or not.
"I don't feel comfortable talking about Barcelona. I'm here for a Champions League semi-final and I don't want to get distracted or cause any distractions."
