However for Argentina, the 25-year-old is one of the best around.

Romero started six of the seven matches on Argentina’s way to World Cup glory in Qatar last year, playing a key role in earning football’s ultimate title.

Argentina were facing Ecuador in a CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifier with Messi winning the game thanks a stunning free-kick, but after the game, it was Romero whom the Inter Miami star gave the credit to.

“For me, he is the best defender in the world right now,” Messi told reporters after the game. “Amazing performance tonight, man of the match.”

It’s not the first time that Messi has singled Romero out for praise either.

Speaking in the Netflix documentary Sean Eternos: Campeones de America, Messi said: “Cuti [Romero]’s appearance was extraordinary for us, for the future of the team and for that moment.”

During the World Cup he also added: “Tough one, I always say we were all on top form.

“If I had to single out someone today, [Nicolas] Otamendi and Cuti Romero have been impressive.

“They have been key players in each match. Once again, their defence was impressive. But everyone deserved it because we gave it our all.

“But if I have to single someone out, they have been putting in a lot of effort to win since the start of the World Cup.”

But while Messi’s opinion holds a lot of weight, fans on X, former known as Twitter, aren’t so sure.

One said: “Martinez is better, Saliba too , Varane, also & many more.”

Another commented: “I don’t wanna disagree with my GOAT but WTAF??”

A third fan wrote: “Messi has just increased his transfer market value, Tottenham will bill whoever comes for him.”

Meanwhile a fourth supporter wrote: “Exaggerating a bit to say he’s the best in the world but Romero’s doing really good lately.”