Football
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Zlatan equal to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, says PSG owner

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is as good as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, according to Paris Saint-Germain's president.

Ibrahimovic, 33, did not enjoy his best season in PSG colours this term, but still finished as the team's leading scorer as they picked up the Ligue 1 title and Coupe de la Ligue.

The Sweden international could help PSG complete an unprecedented domestic treble if they win the Coupe de France on Saturday, and owner Nasser Al Khelaifi told Al Watan his superstar forward deserves to be talked of in the same breath as the game's current greats.

"I put him at the top with them," the Qatari said. "He's controversial, but he loves to win very much, and he imposes extreme discipline on himself. That's the way he has achieved such celebrity.

"I hope the youngsters of Qatar are conscious that great players have got to where they are thanks to their professionalism, their commitment and their sacrifices, which isn't easy."

Marco Verratti arrived at PSG at the same time as Ibrahimovic in summer 2012, although the midfielder's unveiling was very much overshadowed by that of his more illustrious teammate.

But Verratti has since proven equally as influential. Having gained international recognition with Italy, the 22-year-old has been tracked by a host of major European clubs, despite signing an improved deal through to 2019 only last September.

And he told AFP he is not looking to pursue his career anywhere else than Paris.

"I have always said that if PSG don't kick me out, my priority is to stay here. I feel very good in this city, this club. Along with my family, I hope we'll stay here for a long time. I'm in a great team and I am part of a great project. We all want to win the Champions League together," he said. "Paris will always be my second home."

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