It is a challenge to face Messi: De Gea

CAIRO – 26 March 2018: Spanish goalkeeper David De Gea revealed on Monday that playing against Lionel Messi is a challenge to him.

“As a goalkeeper, it is a challenge to face Messi, but we want the best players to be on the pitch," De Gea told press on Monday.

Spain faces Argentina Tuesday night in a friendly game as a preparation for their participation in the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Messi picked up an injury during Argentina’s training sessions, so his participation against Spain is not guaranteed.

De Gea spoke about Spain’s current national team squad, saying, “There are veterans and young people, but the group is fantastic; we get along great and it shows on the pitch.”

De Gea is Spain’s first choice goalkeeper after his great performance with his club, Manchester United.

The Spaniard added, “There's always a lot of enthusiasm from the supporters. We are playing good football and we want to keep on the same track in the lead up to the World Cup."

Spain plays in Group C in the World Cup alongside Portugal, Iran and Morocco.