Guardiola: It’s impossible to stop Messi

Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola has declared Lionel Messi "impossible" to stop.

The Spaniard leads his German champions into battle against Messi and Barcelona tonight, his first return as an opposing manager since a four-year spell when he led the Catalan giants to 14 trophies.

 The 44-year-old knows that if Bayern are to advance to a second final in three years, then they will need to keep control of Messi, who along with Luis Suarez and Neymar, has contributed over 100 goals for Los Cules this season.

 And Guardiola believes his side cannot stop the brilliance of the four-time Ballon d'Or winner and that no matter how he tries to limit Messi's impact, talent will always take precedence.

"If Messi is like I think he will be, there is no defender who can stop him, it is impossible," explained Guardiola. 

"When Messi is in form, as now, no defensive system or coach can stop him. 

"Limiting him is different—keep close and keep the ball from him. 

"However, they have the advantage. I know them, but I can’t control talent. You can imagine what Messi or Neymar might do, but talent is decisive." 

— The Mirror