Cristian Romero Backs Lionel Messi for Another Ballon d’Or

Cristian Romero has made an emphatic case for Lionel Messi to win another Ballon d’Or, arguing that Argentina’s captain remains football’s outstanding player as he approaches the later stages of his career.

Romero’s case for Messi

The 28-year-old Atletico Madrid centre-back spoke after Atletico’s 2-1 derby win against Real Madrid at the Estadio Metropolitano and said Messi should remain the leading candidate for the award until he retires.

Romero’s view is based not only on Messi’s record but on his experience alongside him with Argentina. The defender said Messi helped him settle into the national-team environment during a period when the side had not yet begun collecting major honours.

Having followed Messi from childhood, Romero said he had watched his idol endure difficult moments before ultimately winning every major prize available to him. He described the forward as the greatest player in the game’s history and said the eventual farewell will be a special occasion.

• Romero believes Messi is still the world’s best player.
• He highlighted the Inter Miami forward’s humility within the Argentina dressing room.
• The defender said Messi’s influence helped him adapt after joining the senior squad.
• Romero maintained that there is no comparable player in the modern game.

Concern over Ballon d’Or criteria

While backing Messi, Romero also questioned the direction of individual awards once the Argentina captain steps away. He suggested that commercial reach and marketing influence could become more significant than sporting achievement when future Ballon d’Or winners are chosen.

His comments reflect a belief that Messi’s standing rests on sustained performance rather than profile alone. Romero said the debate over the award will look very different when the veteran forward eventually ends his playing career.

Simeone adds his support

Atletico manager Diego Simeone delivered a similarly clear verdict last week, naming Messi as his choice for the Ballon d’Or. Simeone pointed to Messi’s World Cup campaign and his level at 39 as decisive factors in the discussion.

Messi is among the 30 nominees confirmed by France Football on September 8. His nomination follows a season in which he recorded 45 goals and 30 assists for Inter Miami, as well as reaching the World Cup final with Argentina.

October ceremony awaits

The 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 at the London Palladium Theatre. The event will determine whether Messi can add another award to an already unprecedented collection of individual honours.