Barcelona, May 24: As the UEFA Champions League final looms large in the collective of football fans, the spotlight too falls once again on arguably the best-player of this generation - Lionel Messi. The diminutive Argentine will undoubtedly be the centre of attraction in the title clash between Barcelona and Manchester united.

Messi, all of 23-years of age and the highest scorer in the 2011 edition of the Champions League with 11 goals, has revealed that the rest he received after a hectic season has left him refreshed and fully prepared for the finals.

Speaking about his not playing in the final two La Liga matches, the diminutive football wizard, said, "I wanted to play those games too but it was also good for me...I had a good rest and now we go again."

Messi, who was nothing less than magical in Barcelona's 2-0 win over Real Madrid and effectively sealed a spot for his club in the Champions League final is wary of the challenge presented by Manchester United but nevertheless is confident enough of getting past them and securing the trophy.

He said, "They (United) have a very tough defence with very experienced players who have been playing together a long time...They are a great opponent, have great players and it will be a very tight game. The match can be decided by small details and we have to be well prepared and focused from the first minute."

Messi, who has been the lead-scorer in the Champions League for the third-year in a row has also scored 52 goals in all competitions this season. That apart, he has also set-up 19 of Barcelona's league goals and three in the Champions League.

The final match of the Champions League will be played on May 28 at the Wembley stadium in London. And like it has been for the past few seasons, Messi will be the focus in the match against formidable English opponents Manchester United.

OneIndia News