The match will be a repeat of the 2009 final in Rome, when Barcelona beat United 2-0, with Messi scoring the second goal.
Some in the English media have suggested Manchester United were crowned champions for a record 19th time earlier this month despite lacking the sparkle of past squads, but Messi said he did not think the team was any weaker than in 2009.
“They won the English championship and they are in the Champions League final. They can’t be very weak if they have achieved all that,” said the 23-year-old.
“It is a final, it is a special match given what is at stake. The good memory of Rome is behind us. This will be a totally different match. We are facing a very strong adversary, which has very good players.”
After a bruising Champions League semifinal against Real Madrid, Messi believes United’s style of attacking football will make it an attractive final.
Messi is hopeful Manchester will play their usual attacking game rather than stopping Barca from playing.
“Manchester like to have the ball and pass, so if they do the same against us, then it will be an open match. “We always go out and try to play good football and I can’t say if Manchester will do the same but that is their usual style,” he said.
Messi, who scored two delightful goals in the first leg of the semifinal against Real, said one moment of individual brilliance could settle the match.
“They have a tough defence with players that have a lot of experience and have won a lot of games, so it will not be easy. This week, we will watch videos and talk about ways that we can beat them,” said Messi.
“It is a good way to finish the season by playing in the Champions League final and it would be very disappointing to lose. It is a big game for the team, the coach and for everyone so we will all do our best.
