LIONEL MESSI took the time to share some kind words for former Arsenal star Santi Cazorla during a speaking engagement this week.

The iconic footballer stands apart from almost every other player in the history of the game.

This doesn’t mean he hesitates to showcase his admiration for fellow athletes.

Messi was full of compliments for Arsenal’s iconic player Santi Cazorla when they crossed paths at a ceremony prior to the Princess of Asturias Awards.

The awards, held every year in Oviedo, encompass not only sports but also fields such as science, literature, and the arts.

Messi attended a pre-award ceremony on Thursday in advance of the main event set for the following day, where he is anticipated to receive this year’s award for sport.

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Messi was invited to speak on stage during the event, where he encountered Spanish star Cazorla.

The 41-year-old began his career in the city with Real Oviedo, returning there to conclude his professional journey until retiring in July.

He greeted the star as he took the stage, saying of the Barcelona legend: “When you dream of being a footballer, you imagine facing players like that.”

Cazorla is well acquainted with Messi’s skills, having faced him 14 times in LaLiga, with only one victory to show for it.

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However, Messi equally sang the praises of the Spaniard, who recorded 180 appearances during his tenure with the Gunners.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has played alongside several of his Spain teammates and has consistently heard positive remarks about Cazorla.

He remarked: “All of your teammates at Barca had great things to say about you – that you were an incredible person with a wonderful character.”

These qualities undoubtedly contributed to Cazorla’s impressive tally of 81 caps for his national team.

This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the fierce competition he faced in his position, sharing the field with legends such as Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas, David Silva, and Juan Mata.