Messi's favourite team on FIFA isn't Barcelona

The former Manchester City and Espanyol full-back revealed that the the two were close friends during his spell in Catalonia, often going out together or playing video games.

However, despite his ability on the pitch, Zabaleta insists that Messi leaves a lot to be desired in the virtual world.

"I was better at the playstation than Messi," he revealed.

"He was Chelsea, he used to play with Chelsea a lot."

Considering his difficulties in finding the net against Chelsea in the Champions League over the years his affinity for the club comes as a slight surprise.

Whilst Barca fans are unlikely to be delighted by this revelation, they can at least seek solace in the fact that he didn't choose bitter riavlas Real Madrid.