Nelson Semedo has told ESPN he believes Manchester City will be Barcelona’s biggest rivals in the Champions League.
Semedo, who moved to Camp Nou from Benfica last year, said a clash between Barca and Pep Guardiola’s Premier League leaders “would make a great final.”
“They are doing very well this season and seem the strongest rival right now,” the defender said.
“They would probably be the most complicated team, but they should think the same because Barca have a lot of quality and confidence.
“It would be a great match — a great final or an anticipated final.”
Semedo, who said Barca were focused on the Champions League after last year’s 3-0 defeat at Roma put them out on away goals after a 4-4 aggregate draw, added that it was “a dream” to play for the club.
He said he felt they should have a bigger lead in La Liga this season but warned that arch-rivals Real Madrid were improving after the appointment of Santiago Solari as manager.
The Portugal international hailed Barca teammate Lionel Messi, saying: “Messi is from another planet. He makes the difference. He is the best player I’ve seen, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
“I’ve played with the best two players in the world, in history. I’m used to being asked about both. They are different, but I prefer to keep the opinion of who is No. 1 to myself.”
Semedo backed Ousmane Dembele, who has been linked with a move away from the Camp Nou amid questions over his attitude.
“He is an excellent player, with a lot of potential, and will help us a lot,” he said. “He is totally committed to the team.
“Now he is more responsible, and he is showing it on the pitch. He must continue like this, and I am convinced that he will.”