Real Madrid midfield engine Casemiro unexpectedly gave credit to Sergio Busquets during his interview with Revista Libero on Thursday.
The Brazilian has played against Busquets many times and learned to appreciate his opponent's strengths from experience.
"Busquets is very similar to Xabi Alonso," noted the Brazilian.
"For me, along with Messi, he is Barcelona's most important player. He positions himself well out on the pitch. He's one of the best."
"We talk about Messi, Suarez or Neymar, but Busquets for me is the most important. We talked about Iniesta, Xavi, but he was always there with the darkest job. It is one of the best defensive midfielders. Compared to me it is different."
"It may not have the physical display like mine but it is positioned very well, it is always well placed and that is very important. "