Lionel Messi believes appearing in the Champions League final is more important than winning the Pichichi

Posted Tuesday, May 24, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Barcelona ace Lionel Messi has said he will be playing the Champions League final against Manchester United on Saturday as if it's his last game ever.

The Spanish giants lock horns with the Premier League champions in a repeat of the 2009 final, which was won 2-0 by Pep Guardiola's men. Messi was among the heroes on that night in Rome two years ago, and he is ready to do it all over again.

"I will go out to play this game like it's my last," Messi told the press. "It's a special game and I have good memories of the final in Rome two years ago."

Messi believes that this weekend's opponents are an even match.

"We are playing a great rival who have excellent players like Wayne Rooney and I think it will be an equal game," he said. "There are no favorites for the final. Either side can win. These games are decided by the small details."

Messi will be looking for the back of the net against the Red Devils, but he doesn't believe he needs to score to have an impact on the game.

"I remember what the goal meant," he said. "I can score again, with my head, my foot, but [it doesn't matter] if it is not me, as long as we can lift the trophy."

While speaking to media, Messi took the time to congratulate Cristiano Ronaldo, who stormed to the Pichichi title following his 40 Liga goals with Real Madrid.

"I would have liked to have won the Pichichi, but Cristiano scored plenty of goals in the last few games," he said. "I congratulate him, but what is important is that we win this final. I am more keen on team honors."

Barcelona beat Madrid en route to the final London. Kick off is on Saturday afternoon.