Ahead of his club's Tuesday night meeting with Barcelona, Manchester City chief executive Ferran Soriano has praised Leo Messi, calling the Argentine the best in the world.
The former Barcelona director also spoke of the importance of this Group C clash for his current club, while insisting that the Sky Blues are in a good position to qualify for the last 16.
"Messi eats at his separate table and everyone else comes afterwards," Soriano said at a pre-match lunch for the two clubs' directors.
"I hope he plays well tonight, as he always does."
Addressing City's position in the group and their chances of making the next round, Soriano told those present that Tuesday's match is vital, while also reminding them that winning the competition is a long-term Manchester City goal.
"It is almost a final," he said of the match against the Blaugrana.
"I am confident that we will qualify [for the last 16].
"This is a long-term project and we should that we have improved each year.
"We are first in the Premier League, which is our main objective, as there is plenty of time for Champions League success."
Josep Maria Bartomeu, the president of Barcelona, also attended the event, but he did not speak.