'Incredible playmaker & true leader' - Lionel Messi snubbed as ex-Barcelona star Bojan Krkic names best player he ever worked with

Bojan pointed to Brazilian legend Ronaldinho over Messi when naming his greatest team-mate. The former Roma and Stoke City forward, who made his Barcelona debut at just 17 years and 19 days to break Messi’s old record as the youngest player to feature in a La Liga match for the club, revealed that Ronaldinho left more of a lasting impression on him, both for his talent and his influence on the team.

During his time at Barcelona, Bojan was part of a golden generation that included Messi, Xavi Hernandez, Sergio Busquets, Gerard Pique, and Andres Iniesta. Though Messi would go on to become Barcelona’s all-time top scorer and one of the most decorated players in football history, Bojan emphasized the personal connection and admiration he felt for Ronaldinho’s artistry on the pitch.

During an interview with Abola, Bojan said: "The best player I played with was probably Ronaldinho. I know it’s difficult, and almost unfair, to single out anyone, given that I shared the pitch with Messi, who played at the highest level for years. However, Ronaldinho, in my opinion, had it all. He was an incredible playmaker. Whenever he had the ball – whether during the game or when he was preparing to take a penalty – the whole team trusted him. He really was a true leader."

Bojan’s own football journey spanned several countries and clubs. After graduating from the Barcelona academy in 2006 and scoring 41 goals in 162 senior appearances, he left the club in 2011. He collected an impressive trophy haul at Camp Nou, including two Champions League titles and three La Liga crowns.

Messi is currently focused on his latest chapter with Inter Miami, and will be back in action when the Herons face African club Al Ahly in the Club World Cup's opening match on June 14, marking the MLS side's first foray into global competition.