Paul Pogba paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Barcelona genius’ Argentina side were knocked out of the World Cup by France.

Jorge Sampaoli‘s team were beaten 4-3 at the Kazan Arena in the last-16 on Saturday, in what could have been Messi’s last game in the World Cup, and as an Argentina player.

“We know that we are playing against probably the best player in the world,” the Manchester United star said.

31-year old Messi provided an assist to close friend and team mate Sergio Aguero, who scored a consolation goal for Albiceleste.

“For 10 years now I have been watching him, learning from him. He makes me love football more, always.”

Pogba was all praise for the living legend as his team advanced into the quarter-finals of the competition thanks to Kylian Mbappe’s brace.

“We want to play against the best, and today we won against the best. I will always be united with him, world class players like him, that is all I want to say.”