Janice R. Andrews
In 2019, Lionel Messi, one of football’s greatest icons, named five players he considered the best in the world at that time. Notably, he excluded himself and Cristiano Ronaldo, acknowledging that they were in a league of their own.
Reflecting on his interview with Marca, here’s a look at where these footballing stars are today.
Eden Hazard: A Career Full of Promise
Known for his dazzling dribbling and knack for outwitting defenders, Eden Hazard was a force to be reckoned with during his prime. Before joining Real Madrid, Hazard was a standout at Chelsea, cementing his place among the world’s elite.
“It is very difficult to replace Cristiano, but Hazard is also a great player,” Messi told Marca. “Hazard has a lot of quality. He is a different football player who can unbalance [defences], but I think he is different to Cristiano, with different characteristics.”
Sadly, his dream move to Real Madrid didn’t unfold as hoped. Frequent injuries hindered his performance, and after a challenging four years in Spain, Hazard retired in 2023.
Since stepping away from professional football, Hazard has largely stayed out of the spotlight, occasionally appearing in charity matches to display flashes of his former brilliance.
Sergio Aguero: From Goal Machine to Content Creator
At the peak of his career, Sergio Aguero was a prolific scorer for Manchester City. During the 2018-19 season, he netted 32 goals, helping City secure yet another Premier League title under Pep Guardiola.
However, injuries began to take their toll in the latter stages of his career. After a brief stint at Barcelona, Aguero retired in December 2021 due to health concerns related to a heart condition.
Today, the former striker has transitioned to a new role as a content creator, connecting with fans through gaming and live streams. Despite leaving the field, Aguero’s bond with Messi remains strong, reflecting their enduring friendship.
Luis Suarez: Still Thriving with Messi
Luis Suarez, one of Messi’s closest allies both on and off the pitch, continues to shine even in the later stages of his career. Back in 2015, Messi hailed Suarez as “the best central striker today” and praised his ability to complement the team.
In 2024, the pair reunited at Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS). Their partnership has continued to flourish, with the duo combining for 11 goals last season. Their chemistry, both as teammates and friends, remains as strong as ever.
Neymar: The Eternal Talent
Often touted as the heir to Messi and Ronaldo’s throne, Neymar’s career has been a mix of extraordinary talent and unfulfilled potential. While his skill and flair are undeniable, injuries and off-field challenges have prevented him from fully taking the mantle of the world’s best.
Messi briefly reunited with Neymar at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) before the two parted ways in 2023. Neymar moved to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal but has struggled with injuries, leaving his future uncertain as his contract approaches its end.
Despite the setbacks, Neymar’s legacy as one of the most talented players of his generation remains intact.
Kylian Mbappe: The Rising Superstar
Among Messi’s picks, Kylian Mbappe has perhaps best lived up to expectations. The French forward, who played alongside Messi at PSG, has consistently earned praise for his exceptional skill and dedication.
Now at Real Madrid, Mbappe is hitting his stride, silencing critics with standout performances. With five goals in his last seven matches, he is cementing his reputation as one of the best players in the world.
Mbappe’s journey is far from over, and fans eagerly await what the future holds for this generational talent.
Final Thoughts
The players Lionel Messi named in 2019 have followed varied career paths. While some, like Hazard and Aguero, have retired, others, like Suarez and Mbappe, are still making waves in football. Neymar’s career has been a mix of highs and challenges, but his talent remains undeniable.
Messi’s ability to recognize their unique qualities highlights his deep understanding of the game, and their contributions to football’s rich history continue to resonate with fans worldwide.
