Neville Criticizes Argentinian Defenders, Claims Messi is Key to Their Success

Gary Neville, the former Manchester United defender, has reignited his criticism of Argentinian center-backs Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez. Neville asserted that the duo's success is heavily reliant on the presence of Lionel Messi, suggesting they would not reach a World Cup final without him.

Neville's comments came in response to Romero's remarks about not wanting to be "stupid" after retirement. The English pundit stated on Sky Bet, "Without Lionel Messi, those two defenders couldn't play in the final." He elaborated that they "give away goals" and should constantly acknowledge Messi's contribution.

Despite his harsh critique, Neville acknowledged the players' "incredible personalities" and their "force of nature" style. However, he pointed to Romero's struggles at Tottenham last season, where the team narrowly avoided relegation, as evidence of his perceived limitations when not supported by top-tier attacking talent like Messi.