Jude Bellingham or Lionel Messi? Real Madrid sensation told how long he must wait before overtaking Inter Miami superstar as world’s best

Lionel Messi will remain the world’s best for as as long as he is “active”, says Aitor Ruibal, with Jude Bellingham having to wait for that title.

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• England ace starring for La Liga giants
• Argentine icon still going strong in America
• Battle on for future Ballons d'Or

• Table of Contents

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Inter Miami and Argentina superstar Messi has taken his collection of Ballon d’Or awards to eight in 2023, while also being in the running for the FIFA Best Award on the back of his stunning 2022 World Cup triumph. Another generation of top talent is emerging behind him, with Real Madrid and England midfielder Bellingham forming part of that group.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Bellingham was on target again in his latest outing for Real, taking his goal tally to 16 through 18 appearances, but Real Betis rival Ruibal has told reporters when asked if the exciting 20-year-old is now the finest player on the planet: “As long as Messi is active, I cannot say that anyone is better than him.”

  He added on Bellingham: “It is true that he is one of the best right now and at his age, he is surely among the best ones here, if not already.”

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Bellingham has already picked up the prestigious Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy award in 2023, with his potential clear for all to see. The expectation is that he will come into contention for Ballon d’Or honours in the not too distant future.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR BELLINGHAM?

  Bellingham has been breaking records in Madrid previously posted by Blancos legend Cristiano Ronaldo, and there is no sign of him slowing down despite nursing a shoulder injury that may require surgery at some stage.