Cristiano Ronaldo’s Former Teammate Heaps Praise on Lionel Messi

• Lionel Messi has earned rave reviews from Cristiano Ronaldo's former teammate at Real Madrid, Ricardo Kaka
• The Brazilian waxed lyrical about Messi's mentality owing to the heartbreaking scenes at the Copa America final
• The Argentine playmaker's triumph in the Copa event further cemented his status as the most decorated player of all time

Brazilian football legend Ricardo Kaka once heaped praise on Lionel Messi, emphasizing the Argentine superstar's relentless mentality.

His admiration comes after a viral moment showing Messi in tears after being substituted due to an ankle injury during the Copa America final against Colombia.

Kaka, a former AC Milan star, believes that despite his countless accolades, the 2022 World Cup winner’s relentless drive for success sets him apart.

As reported by Fox Sports, Messi was visibly emotional after suffering an injury during the Copa America final against Colombia.

However, his disappointment quickly turned to joy when Lautaro Martinez's extra-time goal secured victory for La Albiceleste, turning Messi’s tears into celebrations.

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Kaka heaps praise on Messi, salutes his mentality

Reflecting on the poignant scene, Kaka, himself one of football's modern greats, extolled Messi's mentality.

"Messi must raise his head up and know himself well. They always said that Messi does not know that he is Messi, and today I see that happening.

"He has won 8 Ballon d'Ors, the World Cup, and 5 Golden Shoes, and he is now the most decorated with titles.

"He was crying because he could not complete the match. What a great mentality," Kaka remarked, as quoted by Messi World FC.

Kaka, who played alongside Messi's arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, also acknowledged the fans' unforgettable support, noting that not only Argentines but also Colombians chanted Messi's name when he cried.

He emphasised that this global admiration is something to be proud of, as the 37-year-old has earned love from around the world.

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Messi names leading contenders for 2024 Ballon d'Or

In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh revealed that Lionel Messi had identified Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe as leading contenders for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, notably excluding Jude Bellingham from his predictions.

Despite Bellingham's impressive debut season with Real Madrid, Messi does not consider him a top contender for the award.

The Ballon d'Or, historically dominated by Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo over the past decade, saw Messi further extend his record with another win after his 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph.

Source: AFP