In 2007/08, at just 20 years old, Lionel Messi was already a dazzling talent who made opposing players suffer. But those who came up against him, even then, admired and praised him after he left them for dead.
The Argentine is set to return to Old Trafford, where he has played before. Barcelona lost in the Champions League semi-finals there in a defeat that changed their path, with Frank Rijkaard's project being shelved in favour of Pep Guardiola's revolutionary approach.
Ronaldinho left, and Pep's commitment to Messi helped the Argentine to become the player he is now.
Messi was a starter in that match on April 29, 2008, forming the attack with Samuel Eto'o and leaving Thierry Henry on the bench. But Barcelona couldn't find a way to beat Edwin van der Sar, and Paul Scholes' 14th minute goal was the difference and United progressed after a 0-0 first leg draw.
That elimination damaged the Catalans and Rijkaard said his goodbyes, ending his spell at the Camp Nou.
Messi saw his importance grow infinitely under Guardiola and he went from scoring 16 goals in 2007/08 to bagging 36 in 2008/09; the trophies started to stack up after that.
This season, Messi won't want his Champions League dream to end in Manchester again and he is desperate to finally score at Old Trafford, one of the few places remaining where he hasn't found the net.