Messi has backed Tottenham centre-back Cristian Romero as the ‘best defender in the world right now’.
The stopper started as Argentina beat Ecuador in a CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifier, with Messi scoring a brilliant free-kick to secure a 1-0 victory.
Messi, who has taken his stunning Inter Miami form back onto the international stage, believes the Spurs star is now the best in his position across world football:
“For me, he is the best defender in the world right now. Amazing performance tonight, man of the match,” he told Telemundo.
Romero has had a mixed stint in England so far, with his excellent defending and ball-carrying ability often overshadowed by some rash decisions.
However, this season has seen the South American shine consistently so far. In Tottenham’s four Premier League games this campaign he has helped keep two clean sheets and also score two goals whilst operating as a centre-back in a back-four.
