Following yet another fantastic performance, one international teammate has received plaudits from the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, who knows an outstanding defender when he sees one.
Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur has been dubbed the “best in the world” by Lionel Messi, who was pleased by his performances when he was away on international service.
The Argentine legend, who has lined up alongside players like Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique, and Sergio Ramos in his career, is well-positioned to detect an outstanding defender. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is clear about who he believes to be the best player in that position on the planet at the moment.
For the 37-year-old, Christian Romero, a member of his international side, is far superior to Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool and Ruben Dias of Manchester City. Since helping Argentina win the 2022 World Cup, the Spurs star has continued to shine for his nation.
The unheralded Spurs player has now received high accolades from his nation’s captain for his most recent national team effort. Messi’s affection for his countryman was evident following another strong performance in the 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Ecuador.
The Inter Miami talisman was very clear when he stated that Christian Romero is currently the best defender in the world. Man of the match tonight after an incredible performance
Midfielder Rodrigo de Paul shared Messi’s admiration for Romero’s outstanding performance and concurred with his assessment of the defender’s importance to the team. “Cuti Romero is capable of being the best central defender in the world right now,” he remarked.
The best thing that can happen to me is to have him behind because he constantly forces me to move forward because he always wants to be one on one with the opponent. I became accustomed to leaving without turning around, which is enjoyable for a midfielder because it allows them to focus on what is in front of them and causes them to get less exhausted.
The victory allowed the three-time world champions to start their defense of the trophy off on the right foot in their qualification campaign. Argentina was rewarded for their tenacious defense after contributing to keeping a clean sheet when their captain came through to secure the victory.