Marcelo reveals the FC Barcelona player he feared facing the most... It wasn't Leo Messi!

An unexpected confession made by the historic former left-back of Real Madrid, Marcelo Vieira, in the well-known Spanish television 'talk show' El Hormiguero, hosted by Pablo Motos and broadcast on Antena 3. During this interview, the former player of the 'Casa Blanca', Fluminense, among other teams, shared various aspects of his personal and professional life after announcing his retirement.

At this point, the native of Rio de Janeiro reminisced, among other things, about the player who instilled the most fear in him when facing him. Curiously, Marcelo surprised everyone by choosing a player from FC Barcelona, the team he faced the most throughout his lengthy career.

The Barcelona rival that Marcelo feared the most

Contrary to what many might think, Marcelo did not select Leo Messi as the most difficult opponent to face in the FC Barcelona - Real Madrid classics, but mentioned a defender instead. In particular, Vieira chose one of the iconic names of the Catalan team in terms of defense and leadership: Carles Puyol.

Marcelo, who did not fare well in his individual duels with Carles Puyol (one win, two draws, and six losses), shared an anecdote that illustrates why he felt so much 'fear' when facing him.  "I remember that I made a play, I dribbled one and Puyol comes. I thought I was close to the ball, he wouldn't reach it, and he wouldn't tackle me. But from afar, he reached and dived. If I hadn't lifted my foot... it would have been over", he joked.

This anecdote makes perfect sense, as Carles Puyol, in addition to being a historic player for FC Barcelona and a true 'One Club Man', was known for his bravery, intensity, and determination when facing his rivals on the field, regardless of the physical consequences, always aiming to keep opposing players at bay. A true leader on the field and an icon of the Catalan team and Spanish football in general.

Carles Puyol at FC Barcelona:

• Matches: 682
• Goals: 25
• Assists: 14 
• Titles: 21 (6 La Ligas, 2 Copa del Rey, 3 UEFA Champions League, 2 UEFA Super Cups, 2 FIFA Club World Cups, and 6 Supercopa de España)