Lionel Messi names his teammate Argentina Tottenham Hotspur player Christian Romero was named the world’s best defender after his 1-0 win over Ecuador.
Messi’s free kick played an important role in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers between the United States, Canada and Mexico, which they won 1-0 at the Mas Memorial Stadium.
“Messi says Couti is the best defender in the world? I don’t argue with Messi.
Most people don’t like training against him, he’s a real competitor. Whether it’s training or a game, what you see is what you get with Romero. “
đŁ Postkoglu, Tottenham Hotspur manager. pic.twitter.com/8Yd3PR6vms
â Always choose âââ (@SiempreSelecc) September 12, 2023
Romero played alongside Messi during their successful spell in Qatar late last year and has become one of the best defenders in the Premier League since joining Spurs in 2021. This season, he also scored twice as the new coach led the team to a fast start. . Angel Postcoglu.
After Ecuador’s win, Messi praised his compatriots, saying: “For me, (Cristiano Romero) is the best defender in the world right now. His performance tonight was unbelievable and he was the man of the match”.
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Romero came under criticism at the end of the 2022/23 season, with Tottenham crumbling under Antonio Conte, Christian Stellini and Ryan Mason.
He echoed the praise from his teammates, admitting he will always remember it.
đŁïžđŠđ· Lionel Messi: “El Couti (Cristiano Romero) is the best defender in the world” pic.twitter.com/SM3iZOQR0Y
â FĂștbol Fichajes (@FutboolFichajes) September 8, 2023
Romero said: âThese are things Iâll never forget, I didnât expect them.
“You always try to take advantage of the opportunities the coach gives you and my teammates gave me the opportunity on the first day and they welcomed me warmly.
“They sponsored me. They put a lot of trust in me and I try to repay all of their trust. I’m very happy and very grateful to them all.”
Reports in Argentina say Romero suffered a minor injury to his right leg in the win over Ecuador, but he started last Tuesday’s win over Bolivia.
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