‘Lionel Messi not from this world’ - Eden Hazard lauds FC Barcelona superstar

Chelsea F.C.’s Eden Hazard feels the Premier League champions can overcome FC Barcelona in the Champions League but is wary of a familiar dangerman, Lionel Messi.

Eden Hazard believes Lionel Messi’s continued brilliance means Chelsea F.C. will be able to take little comfort from Neymar no longer playing for FC Barcelona when the sides meet in the Champions League.

Lionel Messi has won eight La Liga titles with FC Barcelona. (Twitter)

The Premier League champions and La Liga’s leaders meet in one of the most attractive last-16 ties later this month, with Chelsea’s star forward poised for his latest chance to shine on the biggest stage.

(Read | Thiago Silva: Lionel Messi tougher to defend than Cristiano Ronaldo)

When asked by Marca how Barca shape up now Neymar is plying his trade with Paris Saint-Germain, Hazard alluded to a familiar dangerman.

“You know, they have a guy who is not from this world,” he said.

(Read | Neymar will win Ballon d’Or after Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo: Xavi)

“He’s different, a superclass. But this is not about one player, it is about the whole team.”

Chelsea have suffered a collective slump of late, with Hazard’s fine solo goal not enough to stave off a damaging 4-1 loss at Watford last time out.

(Read | Philippe Coutinho opens account as FC Barcelona beat Valencia to reach Copa del Rey final)

Nevertheless, facing an in-form Barcelona is a prospect that sparks excitement rather than trepidation for the Belgium star.

“It’s a beautiful match,” he added. “This season we are not the same as last season, of course, and they are very good but in the end it is a cup tie and you never know what happens.

“That’s why we love football. I’m pretty sure we can beat them if we play together. We’ll see.”