And Saviola, who oversaw the development of a handful of Barcelona’s young stars as an under-19 coach at the club, said the global clamour for the fixture was indicative of a rivalry that trumps any other in the sport.
“Barcelona and Real Madrid are two of the biggest three teams on the planet,” Saviola told the Post.
“The history of the clubs and background of the fixture are unrivalled, and the majority of the players on the pitch are idols, people are fanatical about them.
“I had the privilege of being in both of these institutions, where you follow great players and breathe the history in each corner of the clubs.
“People in both cities live the match, the colour and the atmosphere around the stadium are special. But there is passion around the world, before, during and after the game. It is the match that stops the planet.
Gifted former playmaker Saviola joined Barcelona from Argentine giants River Plate in 2001, aged 19. He watched on as Messi developed in the club’s renowned La Masia academy, before the 16-year-old made a first-team debut in 2003.
Saviola played alongside Messi at the 2006 World Cup, and was a regular Barca teammate in the 2006-07 season before joining Real Madrid.
“I saw the initial process of him becoming, undoubtedly, the best player of all time,” Saviola said of global superstar Messi, who is scheduled to play in China for his MLS team Inter Miami next month.“I played with amazing players for Barcelona and Real Madrid: Luis Figo, Patrick Kluivert, Rivaldo, Raul, Guti, David Beckham.
“But Leo is the best of all, it is impossible to compare him with anyone … I am very proud and happy I shared the field with him.”
Saviola was eager to watch the latest of La Masia’s talent in “the biggest arena” this weekend.
He coached 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, who is establishing a regular place in manager Xavi Hernandez’s team, and Marc Guiu, the 17-year-old who came off the bench to score on his debut against Athletic Bilbao last week.
“Barcelona are characterised by this philosophy of promoting young, courageous players,” Saviola, who is predicting “an exciting 3-3 draw”, said.
“We could see when Lamine touched the ball for the first time, he was different - and if he was well trained, he would become a great player. Marc’s life will change overnight, he has to keep his feet on the ground and know it is a long journey.
“Xavi was very surprised when he realised their temperament was on the same level as their football, everyone is talking about the joy they play with.”
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