Lionel Messi - Pep Guardiola says Barcelona player is 'best player of all time'

Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has labeled Barcelona forward Lionel Messi, the 'best player of all time'.

The former Barcelona manager was on the opposition side as Messi helped knock Bayern Munich out of the UEFA Champions League.

Speaking after the semi-final second 3-2 victory over Barcelona, Guardiola said: "He is the best player of all time, I compare him with Pele."

Guardiola who managed Barcelona from 2008 to 2012 has backed his former club to win this season's UCL.

"I hope Barca win their fifth Champions League final," Guardiola said.

Barca will play Real Madrid or Juventus in the final in Berlin on 6 June.
Steve Dede