Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has named who he believes to be the best player in the world right now.
Simeone has managed Atletico throughout much of the Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo era, where both players were vying - and still are - to become recognised as the best footballer on the planet.
That debate, of course, still hasn't ended today, even with the duo entering their final years as professional players.
Advert
As Messi's compatriot, Simeone admitted earlier this year that he would pick the Argentinian over Ronaldo 'without a doubt', while praising the talents of both stars.
In recent years, football has seen the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Vinicius Junior break out as world football stars, with Manchester City striker Haaland tipped as one of the favourites to win this year's Ballon d'Or.
This week, Simeone was asked about whether he had changed his view on the best player in the world - and gave very much a matter-of-fact response.
Diego Simeone names best player in the world right now
Advert
Speaking in a press conference ahead of Atletico Madrid's fixture at Valencia on Saturday, Simeone said (via Relevo): "The best player in the world right now? Messi.
"Messi, he became a world champion. What more does he have to win to continue being the best in the world?"
The 36-year-old appears likely to win the Ballon d'Or this year as a result of his exploits with Argentina in December - with his World Cup trophy win widely seen to essentially be the final tick on his career checklist.
He is currently embarking on a new chapter in MLS with Inter Miami, and has already lifted his first silverware with the franchise by winning the Leagues Cup.
Advert
How long Messi continues to play professionally remains to be seen - but we can still enjoy watching him now while he is still at the top level.
Topics: Diego Simeone, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Atletico Madrid
Ryan Smart