Diego Simeone, the manager of Atletico Madrid, has expressed his opinion on who he believes is the best player in the world right now.
Simeone has managed Atletico Madrid during much of the era when Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were competing for the title of the best footballer on the planet. This debate continues even as both players enter the final stages of their professional careers.
As Messi’s fellow countryman, Simeone previously stated earlier this year that he would choose Messi over Ronaldo “without a doubt” while acknowledging the talents of both players.
In recent years, football has witnessed the emergence of stars like Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Vinicius Junior as global football sensations, with Manchester City striker Haaland being considered one of the favorites to win this year’s Ballon d’Or. Simeone’s choice for the best player in the world today could provide insight into his current perspective on this ongoing debate.
This week, Simeone was asked about whether he had changed his view on the best player in the world – and gave very much a matter-of-fact response.
Diego Simeone names best player in the world right now
Diego Simeone: “The best player in the world right now? Messi.. Messi, he became a world champion. What more does he have to win to continue being the best in the world?” @relevo 🇦🇷🗣️
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) September 15, 2023
Speaking in a press conference ahead of Atletico Madrid’s fixture at Valencia on Saturday, Simeone said (viaRelevo): “The best player in the world right now? Messi.
“Messi, he became a world champion. What more does he have to win to continue being the best in the world?”
The 36-year-old appears likely to win the Ballon d’Or this year as a result of his exploits with Argentina in December – with his World Cup trophy win widely seen to essentially be the final tick on his career checklist.
He is currently embarking on a new chapter in MLS with Inter Miami, and has already lifted his first silverware with the franchise by winning the Leagues Cup.
How long Messi continues to play professionally remains to be seen – but we can still enjoy watching him now while he is still at the top level.