Lionel Messi ranks four Liverpool players amongst the best in the world
Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi is one of the greatest ever players to grace the game. Not only is he an extremely gifted footballer in his own right, but has also played alongside some of the best in the game at both club and international levels.
Hence, you can argue that being chosen as one of the best by such a player will be a recognition of sorts. Liverpool fans can rest easy knowing that the Argentine legend has chosen four Reds in his top 25, according to the Daily Star.
The Reds spectacularly dumped Messi’s Barcelona out of the Champions League. It looks like a few of our players have left a lasting impression. This list includes Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.
Messi designed a set of Champions League trading cards for 2020 alongside Topps in which he picked out “Top Talents” alongside rising stars and his own greatest moments. The list featured who’s who in the footballing world including former Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho. A surprising choice considering Messi has had a front-row view of the player’s struggles at the Nou Camp.
The fantastic four plus one
There can be no debate regarding the selection of Virgil van Dijk, as the Dutchman finished second in the Balon D’ or only behind Messi and his quality was acknowledged by the Argentine star.
“He is a very tough opponent, one of the best in the world”
Messi was similarly generous in his praise for Reds shot-stopper Alisson Becker. He claimed that the Liverpool No.1 is a cool customer and has more in his locker than other players. Alisson played a starring role as he kept Messi and co. at bay on that night at Anfield.
The Argentine is a fan of Salah’s style and professed his admiration for the Egyptian’s goalscoring ability. Mane too received considerable praise for his versatility and energy.
“He is like a midfielder, winger, striker. He is everywhere.”
Rising Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold also made the list under the rising stars category. Messi has particularly highlighted the youngster’s ability to make a difference up the pitch as the ‘future’.
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We feel there should be more of our players on the list given the couple of seasons we have had. It would have been good to see the likes of Andy Robertson in there, but we would like to think that getting under Messi’s skin at Anfield cost him a spot.
