Pizzi: Barcelona are the best in the world with or without Messi

By Patrick Gleeson | GOAL.com – Sat, Oct 20, 2012 3:13 AM SGT

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Luis Pizzi is hoping Tito Vilanova decides to rest Lionel Messi when the two sides meet on Saturday, but was quick to point out the abundance of talent Barcelona possess.

As a result of the Argentine's exertions on international duty, it is widely expected the two-time Ballon d'Or winner will start on the bench.

“Of course it would be better if Messi didn't play,” Pizzi explained at a press conference. “But Barca are not only Messi, they are [Andres] Iniesta, and Xavi.

“They're all good and we will try to stop them all. They are one of the best teams in the world, if not the best."

The Blaugrana are still unbeaten in La Liga this season, and the 23-year-old acknowledged his side will need a combination of factors to work in their favour if they are to cause an upset.

“You have to work hard, have luck and hope that they don't have a good day. We must defend and be together when Barca have the ball," he added.

Newly-promoted Deportivo currently sit in 18th place with six points from their opening seven league games - 13 points behind their opponents on Saturday.

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