Messi Slams Liverpool Star in Premier League Rankings: A Shocking Foot

Lionel Messi has publicly disagreed with the widely held opinion that Virgil van Dijk is the best defender in the Premier League. The Argentine football legend believes another player is more deserving of that title, sparking debate in the football world.

Messi's Bold Claim

Lionel Messi has sparked debate once again after publicly disagreeing with the widely held opinion that Virgil van Dijk is the best defender in the Premier League. The Dutchman has long been considered one of the Premier League's elite defenders, having won every major domestic title with Liverpool, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup, along with the 2019 UEFA Champions League.

A standout moment in his career came during Liverpool's stunning 4-0 Champions League semi-final win over Messi's Barcelona in 2019. However, Van Dijk also featured in the Netherlands team that was knocked out of the 2022 World Cup by Argentina, led by Messi, in a dramatic penalty shoot-out.

Van Dijk's Rival: Cristian Romero

Following Argentina's World Cup 2026 qualifier win over Ecuador in late 2023, Messi showered praise on Tottenham Hotspur's Cristian Romero, declaring him a defensive rock for the team. Romero, a key part of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad, has become a vital presence for Tottenham.

Romero returned to action as captain during Spurs' Europa League quarter-final second leg win over Eintracht Frankfurt. With Spurs now just two games away from their first European final in over four decades, Romero's leadership and defensive strength could be crucial in ending that drought.

The Debate Continues

Liverpool are in pole position to secure another Premier League title, which would mark Van Dijk's second league triumph with the Reds. While he remains an icon at Anfield, the debate over who is currently the world's best defender may now be leaning toward north London, thanks to Messi's influential endorsement of Romero.

The couple attended the game as the Herons began their defence of the 2023 Leagues Cup title, hosting Liga MX side Puebla at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.

Source: Yen ALL