Former Liverpool FC manager Jürgen Klopp has named Lionel Messi of Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal as the two best players in the world.
Klopp made the remarks while reflecting on the duo’s remarkable longevity as they continue to impress at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking with Tribal Football, the German tactician praised Messi’s tactical brilliance and record breaking goalscoring ability, while also applauding Ronaldo’s relentless energy and intensity at 41 years old.
“As a mere spectator, it naturally captivates me a bit because they are the best players of the last ten, fifteen years,” Klopp said.
“After the first game, in which Cristiano Ronaldo was heavily criticised, to then strike back like that, and at 41 years old with an extremely lively, intense performance, I was very pleased.
“Messi kindly included us in the line of well wishers, even as a 59 year old, I realised just how special something like that can be.”
Messi has now scored 18 World Cup goals in his illustrious career, while Ronaldo has 10, as both Argentina and Portugal continue their push toward the knockout stages of the tournament.
