Messi is the best.” Asked once for his all-time top five, Jürgen Klopp wouldn’t name them all, but said the Argentinian was No 1. Being a World Cup runner-up accredited Modric as the best; being a World Cup runner-up is held against Messi, proof of failure. A better measure of Messi might be sought in Simeone and reactions like his – in the men around Messi who comprehend him through competition. Photograph: Anadolu Agency/Getty ImagesThat day in March, Messi got a standing ovation from the Betis fans. He was 50 yards from goal but the moment the ball reached him, Atlético’s manager could “smell” the danger and so could Messi.

Source: The Guardian December 20, 2019 18:48 UTC