Chiellini: There'd be no wondergoal for god-like Messi in Italy

The centre-backs says that while the Argentine is "the best player of the last 30 years" he wouldn't be as prolific if he played in Serie A.Giorgio Chiellini thinks "god of football" Lionel Messi would not have scored the wondergoal he bagged forBarcelona in the Copa del Rey final against an Italian team's defence.The Argentina international's genius is once again being toasted across the globe after he netted a sensational strike on Saturday against Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou, with the 27-year-old leaving four players trailing in his wake before firing home the opener in the 3-1 victory.Speaking ahead of this weekend's Champions League final against Barca, Chiellini lauded Messi's talent but argued the four-time Ballon d'Or winner would be better marked if he plied his trade in Serie A.It was certainly a great goal, the versatile centre-back told reporters on Monday.
I don’t think Messi would be able to score a goal like that in Italy, where the defending is much better than in Spain.There’s better football in La Liga but worse defending.But Messi is now the god of football. It’s difficult to compare him with Diego Maradona, Pele and company, but he’s probably the best player of the last 30 years.Chiellini will not only have the chance to pit his wits against Messi in Berlin on Saturday but will also meet Luis Suarez for the first time since the Uruguay international bit him during last summer's World Cup.The 30-year-old insisted, though, he does not hold a grudge against the former Liverpool striker and will be more than happy to shake his hand ahead of the kick-off.Of course I’ll greet him before the game, he added. Those who know me know that there won’t be any problems. Nothing has changed between us.It’ll be like greeting Karim Benzema or Javier Hernandez. I’ll be attentive to his movements.But Juve come into the Champions League final with great credit and humility. If we do things bravely and limit Barca’s qualities, we’ll have a chance.