Sporting Gijon midfielder Alen Halilovic hopes to face parent club Barcelona this Wednesday.

The Croatian is eager to start the game.

"I'm motivated to play against Barcelona. They're the best team in the world and have the best players. It would be the first time I take on my idol, Messi, the best."

The Croatian revealed he has spoken with Ivan Rakitic.

"He told me, very well, that I scored against Rayo, but not against Barcelona."