Getting to know the stars: Blaise Matuidi
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
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Paris Saint-Germain's Blaise Matuidi picked his five greatest players of all time and opened up about Zlatan Ibrahimović in a live Q&A on the UEFA Champions League Facebook page.
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We are getting closer than ever to the stars of the UEFA Champions League this season, kicking off with Paris Saint-Germain's French international midfielder Blaise Matuidi.
Toughest club and player you have ever faced?
Blaise Matuidi: Lionel Messi and Barcelona.
Name your top five footballers of all time ...
Matuidi: Zinédine Zidane. He made history with his talent, quality and all the trophies he won. Lionel Messi, an extraordinary player who makes the difference at important times – or maybe all the time! Diego Maradona, even if he's not of my generation. I've seen some tapes and what he was able to do was extraordinary. The same goes for Pelé, who was exceptional. Then we have [Brazilian] Ronaldo, 'O Fenômeno'. He was an amazing talent, scored lots of goals and left a mark at each club he played for.
Who is your role model?
Matuidi: Claude Makélélé. I followed him when I was younger, for his passing game, positioning and intelligence when chasing the ball.
Best player you have played with?
Matuidi: It's difficult to answer as there are a lot of great players, but I will say Zlatan Ibrahimović. He's an exceptional player in all he did and all he does.
What did you think of the group stage draw?
Matuidi: It's a tough draw and there are no easy games. Madrid are favourites and Shakhtar are not to be underestimated. Malmö can be considered an outsider, but they'll have nothing to lose. Our goal is to finish top.
How will it feel to run out for France at the Stade de France for the opening game of UEFA EURO 2016?
Matuidi: It's going to be something special because having EURO 2016 in France is amazing. I might think a little – but not too much – about a certain past final that was played in France!
What is it like playing with Zlatan?
Matuidi: It's great. He's an amazing player. You improve a lot with him because he likes to win and hates losing. That's something he's taught everyone at the club. He's also a funny guy who likes to joke when the time is right.
Read more from Matuidi on the official UEFA Champions League Facebook page
