Xabi Alonso, the manager of Real Madrid, responded to Franco Mastantuono, the club’s recent acquisition, calling Lionel Messi the greatest player in the world.
When asked about his career role models during his unveiling on Monday, Mastantuono, an Argentine, replied that he had a number of football legends he looked up to.
He mentioned that Jude Bellingham, an England midfielder, is one of the many amazing players at his new team.
The teenager immediately named his countryman, Messi, as the best player in the world when asked.
It’s Messi for me. He’s the best, in my opinion, and I’m Argentine,” he remarked.
Alonso was asked if he intended to question the young player for making such a selection when he spoke to the media prior to Real Madrid’s first game against Osasuna.
According to All About Argentina, he said:
“What is the recommendation? To advise him as to which athlete should be his favorite?” Alonso said.
“No, see, I understand why Lionel Messi is his favorite player. Being left-footed and Argentine, I don’t find that surprising.
Mastantuono and Messi have only combined for six minutes of national team action.
This occurred during this year’s 1-0 victory over Chile in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
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