Argentine compatriots exchanged words after the two-time World Player of the Year stated Pablo Aimar continues to be his idol.

The Barcelona player spoke to his home TV channel Canal 9 admiring the qualities of the Benfica playmaker.

"Pablo Aimar was, and is, my idol. I really like to watch him play and I have followed his career since the beginning at River Plate."

Benfica's «number 10» felt proud and redistributed the feeling towards Lionel Messi, underlining the importance of being a down to earth person.

"It feels me with pride that the best player in the world says that. I thank him sincerely for those words and I think it's also because I have affection for him."

"It's a responsibility, but I believe what people value in football players is the way they present themselves. Giving the example of Messi, I hold him in high regards, not just as a football player, but for his virtues and someone who continues to be a normal person."

Aimar is hoping to face Messi's Barcelona in the Champions League.

"It would be interesting to play against him, not only because of who he is, but playing Barcelona means we are progressing further in this competition. But this will demand a lot of work."

Paços de Ferreira will be visiting the Luz tomorrow as Benfica prepare for another domestic league game.

"We will have to take the game to them. Hopefully we can play some good football and win the match."

"The season has started well for us, much better than last year but we won't know how it will finish. We will work hard to make sure it ends in the same way as when we were champions."