Xavi insists Lionel Messi is better than Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of El Clasico

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by Crunch Sports Staff

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi (credit: SIU WU/AFP/Getty Images)

Speaking ahead of tonight's El Clasico clash, Barcelona midfielder Xavi has stated he believes team-mate Lionel Messi is better than Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo.

The two sides meet this weekend for a game that is always a highlight on the European football calendar, but Saturday's game has added importance as it could decide who wins La Liga this season.

As always, there will be a lot of attention on star players Messi and Ronaldo, and although some believe Ronaldo is the more complete player of the two, Xavi believes his team-mate is the best in the world.

"I think most people in football think as I do," said the midfielder when asked if the three-time Ballon d'Or winner was the greatest footballer in the world today.

"Obviously Cristiano is a great footballer," he told GolTV.

"They are two players who make the most difference on a football field, but Messi is above anyone.

"I hate to compare, but Leo gives us everything: scores goals; creates them; always involved in the flow of the game, leading nearly every attacking move.

"This guy has it all: he even heads the ball well in spite of his height. Pep [Guardiola] once said that he dominates every facet of the game, and he is absolutely right. He is the best, number one."

Looking ahead to the Camp Nou clash, Xavi admitted the Catalans will likely look to attack more than usual as they aim to reduce a four point deficit over Jose Mourinho's side at the top of Primera Liga.

"We try not to change our philosophy; to always be protagonists," he added.

"Madrid have played in various ways but we have not changed out style of play in any game.

"We have always wanted the ball in order to have those long possessions that help us control the game and, from there, try to win the match.

"We cannot change our game now. We have done it against all rivals, and against Madrid at their home, too.

"So, we will try to attack more so than ever, having the ball more than ever and go on the attack more than ever to win the match."

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