The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner knows an outstanding defender when he sees one and has lavished praise on one international teammate following yet another masterful display

Lionel Messi has declared a Tottenham Hotspur player to be the “best in the world” after being pleased by his performances while on international duty.

After playing alongside Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique, and Sergio Ramos in his career, the Argentine legend is well-placed to detect an outstanding defender. At the moment, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is unequivocal about who he believes is the finest in the world in that position right now.

For the 37-year-old, Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool and Ruben Dias of Manchester City are no match for his international teammate Christian Romero. Since helping Argentina win the World Cup in 2022, the Spurs star has continued to shine for his country.

Now, his country’s captain has lavished praise on the unsung Spurs player, praising his most recent international performance. Messi’s fondness for his compatriot was clear after another good performance in a 1-0 World Cup qualification victory against Ecuador.

“For me, [Christian Romero] is the best defender in the world right now,” the Inter Miami superstar stated emphatically. Tonight, you were the man of the match.”

Similarly, midfielder Rodrigo de Paul was impressed by Romero’s outstanding performance, echoing Messi’s remarks on the defender’s standing in the game. “Today, Cuti Romero is up to being the best central defender in the world,” he remarked.

“Having him behind me is the best thing that could happen to me because he always forces me to go forward because he wants to be one on one with the opponent.” I got used to running out without looking back, which is great for a midfielder because it lets you to focus on what’s in front of you and allows you to get less exhausted.”

“For me, [Christian Romero] is the best defender in the world right now,” the Inter Miami superstar stated emphatically. Tonight, you were the man of the match.”

Messi netted a superbly weighted free kick in the 78th minute to guarantee them took three crucial points. The group’s morale appears to be strong at the moment, with Romero returning Messi’s compliment in his post-match interview.

“Ecuador were strong at the back and tried to exploit any mistakes we made,” the 25-year-old colossus stated. But then the greatest player in the world appeared and opened up the game, and things became much easier.”