Many in the football world do not want to face Lionel Messi, but Argentine midfielder Alan Varela sees this as a special opportunity. He is looking forward to playing against Messi, and thinks it is going to be a learning moment in his career.

Varela is going to have Messi as his opponent in the FIFA Club World Cup. Messi's club Inter Miami and Varela's Porto have been drawn in Group A of the tournament to be held next June. Porto, Miami, Brazil's Palmeiras and Egypt's Al Ahly - these four teams are in the group.

Three months later, on June 19, this exciting match between Miami and Porto will be held in Atlanta, USA. Through this, Varela is going to have one of the best footballers in the world, Messi, as his opponent, he said.

The 23-year-old Varela has not yet made his debut for the national team. However, playing against Messi is a matter of pride for him. In an interview with FIFA's website, Varela said, "Playing against Messi is something special. He is the best player in the world, I hope he doesn't show his superiority in this match. We want to give our best football and beat Miami."

Varela, a regular for Porto this season, has played 30 matches, but has not scored a goal. However, he has made three assists.