Argentina defender Cristian “Cuti” Romero has backed Lionel Messi to continue receiving the Ballon d’Or until the legendary forward decides to retire from professional football.
Romero made the comments while discussing Messi’s remarkable career and influence on the game, insisting that he sees no player comparable to his Argentina teammate. The Atletico Madrid defender believes the Ballon d’Or should remain with Messi while he continues playing at the highest level.
Softfootball understands that Romero’s comments come amid renewed discussions about the Ballon d’Or, with Messi once again attracting attention despite being 39 years old. Romero has shared the pitch with Messi for Argentina for several years, including during their 2022 World Cup triumph.
The defender’s comments have gained further attention following another remarkable milestone from Messi at club level. The Inter Miami captain recently reached 930 career goals after scoring a free kick against San Diego FC in MLS. The strike was his 75th career free-kick goal and his 101st goal for Inter Miami.
Messi scored the milestone goal in the 24th minute of Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with San Diego, curling a left-footed free kick that struck the post before crossing the line. The goal was also his 20th in the 2026 MLS season.
Romero’s admiration for Messi is well established, having played alongside him during Argentina’s successful 2022 World Cup campaign and their run to the 2026 World Cup final.
With Messi continuing to produce goals and individual milestones deep into his career, Romero believes the debate over his place among football’s elite remains straightforward while the Argentine remains active.
