Romero Backs Messi for Another Ballon d'Or: 'He Is Still the Best'

Argentina defender Cristian Romero says Lionel Messi should keep winning the Ballon d'Or until retirement ahead of next month's ceremony in London.

Atletico Madrid defender Cristian Romero has told ESPN that Lionel Messi should be the recipient of the Ballon d'Or when this year's winner is revealed at a London ceremony next month, arguing the honor belongs to the Argentine for as long as he keeps playing.

Romero, a longtime teammate of Messi with Argentina, praised both the player and the person, describing a rare humility despite everything Messi has accomplished in the sport. He also credited Messi with helping him settle into international football during a period when the national team was not yet collecting trophies.

The comments come after a standout year for the 39-year-old Inter Miami forward. He tops MLS this season with 20 goals and 13 assists, and he recently reached 100 goals for his club in all competitions faster than any player in league history.

At the 2026 World Cup, Messi found the net eight times while driving Argentina to a second consecutive final, where Spain prevailed in extra time. He remains a longshot candidate to claim a record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or.

Romero closed with a jab at the award's politics, suggesting that once Messi retires, the prize may simply go to whichever player carries the greatest marketing appeal.