Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has declared Lionel Messi as a superior player to Diego Maradona.

Barca are in Naples for Tuesday night's Champions League round 16 first-leg clash with Napoli.

And Pique was asked about Messi coming to play in Diego Maradona's backyard.

He said, “Everything has already been said about Maradona, he is a unique player who has given a lot to the sport. He went to Barcelona and also to Napoli.

“He will be remembered forever. If, however, you ask me for a comparison between Maradona and Leo, I choose the consistency of Messi, considering his magic for so many years.

“I haven't talked to Leo about playing in the San Paolo. He will surely be happy to play in a new stadium for him and for his history.

“The most important thing however, is to leave here with a good result."