Ronaldinho Says Lionel Messi Is Best Player in World

Former Barcelona star Ronaldinho shared the pitch with Lionel Messi during his five-year run with the Spanish side, and the Brazilian legend didn't hesitate to heap praise upon the club's No. 10 shirt in an interview with Marca published Wednesday. 

According to the Spanish publication, Ronaldinho stated that Messi is the greatest player the sport has to offer: "He is the best in the world, and there's nothing more to be said." 

Ronaldinho's comments come weeks before FIFA will hand out its annual Ballon d’Or on Jan. 11, 2016, with Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho's fellow countryman Neymar vying for the coveted hardware. 

While cases can be made for the Portuguese and Brazilian stars, Messi's 2014-15 campaign was simply sensational. Not only did the Argentine net 58 goals in all competitions, per ESPNFC.com's Miguel Delaney, but he helped lead Barcelona to their second treble in six seasons. 

Should Messi capture Ballon d’Or honors, it will be his fourth time doing so since 2010. Ronaldo interrupted Messi's run of three straight Ballon d'Or victories by snagging the prestigious award in 2013 and 2014. 

Riding a high following last season's dominance, Barcelona have continued their run atop the La Liga table and have assumed the form of league favorites with 2016 right around the corner. 

Barcelona are also eyeing a Champions League repeat as they get ready for February's round-of-16 play against English Premier League side Arsenal.    

"I hope Barcelona win it, but it is going to be very hard, as there are some very good sides, and everyone wants to get to the final," Ronaldinho added, per Marca. 

While debate continues to rage regarding the world's best player, the numbers and trophies suggest it would be hard to argue with Ronaldinho's claim—no matter how much his career arc may have influenced his opinion.