When Bayern Munich faces off against Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday, it will be a clash of titans the likes of which is rarely witnessed. But, don’t expect Bayern defender Medhi Benatia to be star struck.
Benatia has recently told Kicker magazine that while he respects the Barcelona front line of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Neymar Jr “on a personal level,” that respect won’t see the light of day during the match.
"I have met Suarez before with Udinese in the Europa League, when he still played for Liverpool. I have never faced Messi and Neymar before, but there's a first time for everything," Benatia said. "On a personal level, I respect them. But I will not show them any respect during the 90 minutes on the pitch. We will do everything within our power to make it to the final of the Champions League.”
This is not the first time such talk has arisen from an opponent of Barcelona’s. Manchester City’s Samir Nasri said that his side wouldn’t show Barcelona too much respect during their round of 16 match. They were soundly beaten 3-1 on aggregate. Benatia will surely hope his side can get a better result in the semi-final.
Bayern Munich plays Barcelona this Wednesday, the 6th, and 2:45 EST.
