2026 World Cup: Klopp names best two players

Former Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp, has named Lionel Messi of Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal as the best two players in the world.

Klopp was speaking about the duo’s longevity, as they continue to shine at the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking with Tribal Football, the German hailed Messi’s tactical genius and record-breaking scoring, while applauding 41-year-old Ronaldo’s relentless intensity.

“As a mere spectator, it naturally captivates me a bit because they are the best players of the last ten, fifteen years,” Klopp said.

“After the first game, in which Cristiano Ronaldo was heavily criticised, to then strike back like that, and at 41 years old with an extremely lively, intense performance, I was very pleased.

“Messi kindly included us in the line of well-wishers, even as a 59-year-old, I realised just how special something like that can be.”

Messi now has 18 total World Cup goals for his illustrious career, while Ronaldo has 10 as both Argentina and Portugal push on to the next round.