On March 11, 2025, FC Barcelona is set to face SL Benfica in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, and the excitement is palpable as former players weigh in on the encounter. Among them is Nolito, who played for both clubs during his illustrious career. His insights reflect not just his dual loyalty but also the high expectations from key players as Barcelona seeks to advance to the quarter-finals.
Nolito, known for his time with clubs such as Celta Vigo and Manchester City, shared his thoughts during an appearance on the popular radio show El Larguero. When asked about his allegiance for this pivotal game, he expressed, "I won’t take sides. Both clubs mean a lot to me. I had the fortune to be treated with great respect by both. I feel very loved in Lisbon and in Barcelona. I always wish them the best." His words highlight the shared history and admiration he holds for both teams.
When delving deep about Barcelona's current form, he expressed awe at the play of Raphinha and Pedri, remarking, "Raphinha went on 'Extreme Makeover'... He was already a good player, but right now he’s the best player at Barcelona. He does everything right." Nolito’s commendation of Raphinha is echoed by his remarks about Pedri, whom he termed as having delivered "a masterclass" during the first leg of the tie. He declared emphatically, "For me, today, Pedri and Raphinha are among the top five players." This glowing praise signals just how pivotal these two youngsters are to Barcelona's success this season.
Alongside the duo, Nolito mentioned several other promising talents within the Barcelona ranks, including Lamine, Casadó, Cubarsí, and Koundé, emphasizing, "Almost everyone at Barça is on the rise right now." This remark reflects the optimism surrounding the squad's future as they build on their successes. Nolito’s affection for these players is palpable as he observes their growth and impact on the team's performance.
The conversation naturally transitioned to Benfica, where Nolito offered praise for Álvaro Carreras, noting his talent and character. Carreras, who played as both a left-back and winger, earned Nolito's nod after impressing during their recent match. He also highlighted Ángel Di María's continuous prowess, skillfully noting his ability to perform at the highest level even as he ages. "How dangerous you all are! The other day, he made two or three incredible saves," he said, reinforcing the cutthroat nature of elite football.
Nolito did not shy away from adding some humor to the interview, recalling players who could perform spectacularly regardless of their off-field habits. He said, "I’ve known some who smoked more than a cartload, yet when the match came, they could bring their best to the pitch. You’d think, what now?" This light-hearted reflection on fitness and performance adds warmth to the professional dialogue about strenuous athletic demands.
On the topic of management, Nolito shared his thoughts about Hansi Flick, the current coach of Barcelona, indicating, "He came out of his cave, and I think he’s doing a great job, though I believe he inherited some of Xavi’s work already done." This comment suggests respect for both the previous and current managerial efforts at Barcelona, bridging the past and present as they build upon established foundations.
With sentiments running high, Nolito acknowledged the importance of today's match by stating, "I would give at least 25% of what I have on my bank account to play 80 minutes, not 90, because that's too much." His eagerness to participate reflects the gravity of the occasion, one he believes will determine which club proceeds in the prestigious tournament.
Having played for both sides, Nolito's insights carry added weight, as he draws upon his experiences to contextualize the rivalry and the expectations surrounding the clubs. He reminisced fondly about his time at Benfica, sharing memories of playing alongside revered players such as Aimar and Saviola. "Benfica m'a donné la chance de jouer en Ligue des champions et en ligue portugaise. J'ai beaucoup appris de joueurs magnifiques qui étaient mes idoles," he expressed, fondly reflecting on the past.
Approaching the end of the discussion, Nolito painted the future with optimism for both clubs, intricately weaving his personal experiences with the potential outcomes of the match. His enthusiasm is infectious, and it serves as a reminder of the unifying power of football, bridging various cultures and personal histories.
Tonight's encounter not only has ramifications for the Champions League pathways but also serves as a reminder of the legacies interwoven within this beautiful game. For fans of both clubs, China's anticipation builds as players like Raphinha and Pedri look to rise to the occasion, fulfilling the faith placed upon them by legends like Nolito. With every continued effort on the pitch, they carve their names alongside these storied institutions, each step echoing hopes and dreams for glory.
Tonight's game is more than just another fixture; it's steeped in history, alliances, and the vibrant future of football, with Nolito’s foresight encapsulating the heart of this impending duel.