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The title of the world’s best defender is a debatable topic among soccer fans. However, Lionel Messi did not hesitate to choose his Argentine compatriot as the greatest defender currently. The Tottenham defender, surprisingly, was overjoyed after learning about La Pulga’s praise in an interview.

Messi played against numerous top defenders throughout the decades. Yet, the world champion believed the Spurs star was the foremost player in his position in this generation. On this note, the 25-year-old defender admired the former Barcelona stars’ words and expressed his gratitude.

How did the Spurs star react to the remarks of Lionel Messi?

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Leo Messi commended Cristian Romero for his exceptional performance with Argentina. The Inter Miami star also referred to the Hotspur defender as the best after their CONMEBOL qualifier game. However, the Argentine defender wasn’t aware of Messi’s high-regard and cleared out the air in the interview with journalist Rodrigo Lara on Paramount+.

Romero responded to the praise quite emphatically in the show. Romero remarked, “Did Leo say this? Wow. I didn’t know it. I’m grateful the words like that are coming from the best player in the history of football.”

The Tottenham star’s domestic career has been a roller coaster in recent years. The Argentine was fielded in 71 games for Spurs in 2021 but failed to achieve any significant success in the past seasons. However, the 25-year-old’s performances improved in the early days of Postecoglou’s tenure with Spurs. Romero emulated the resounding versatility on his Premiere league side as he has done for Argentina.

Read more: Injured Lionel Messi’s ‘Non-Negotiable’ Decision Revealed as Inter Miami Boss Tata Martino Admits ‘Club Is Aware of That’

Cristian Romero’s impressive performance for Argentina

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The former Genoa center back is recognized for his aggression and steadfast approach to defending. Additionally, he played a crucial role in Albiceleste’s triumph in the 2022 World Cup. Romero bolstered the back line and contributed to the two clean sheets during his seven appearances. Recently, the former Atalanta United defender delivered an outstanding display against Ecuador for the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

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Romero successfully executed five tackles and recorded 12 recoveries during the game. Additionally, the Argentine emerged victorious in 11 out of his 13 duels and executed many crucial last-man tackles. Eventually, he was the man of the match with a clean sheet in the game. These remarkable statistics underscored why La Pulga considered Romero the preeminent defender of this generation.

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How did you react to Romero’s reply to Messi’s regard for him? Comment below and share your thoughts.