Retired Algerian star Rabah Madjer denied on Tuesday the authenticity of statements attributed to him, published by an Egyptian newspaper, which quoted him saying that Egyptian Mohamed Salah, star of Liverpool FC, is currently the best player in the world, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United) and Lionel Messi (Paris Saint-Germain).
Madjer, who led Porto to the European Champion Clubs' Cup title in 1987, stated to the Algerian newspaper "Echorouk News": "The statement in the Egyptian newspaper has no basis in truth."
The former Algerian national team player, who participated in the World Cups of 1982 and 1986, added: "I have great respect for Salah, but I did not say he is currently the best, nor have I given any media interview for a while."
The Egyptian website "Watan Sport" published statements credited to the former Algerian international under the title "Rabah Madjer to 'Watan Sport': Salah is the best player in the world, surpassing Messi and Ronaldo."
According to the site, Madjer said that "at this moment Mohamed Salah is considered better than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, thanks to his consistent performance this season and his remarkable brilliance, making him the best player in the world right now."
It was also claimed that Madjer stated, "Everyone must now admit that the best player in the world has become Egyptian, thanks to what Mohamed Salah has accomplished and the goals he scores, along with his impressive statistics and outstanding performance. He has the ability to bring out the best in his teammates every match without failing with Liverpool."
Salah is currently the top scorer in the Premier League with 7 goals, tied with Leicester City forward Jamie Vardy, after 8 rounds. The Egyptian winger has recently showcased a striking performance, scoring two brilliant solo goals in matches against Manchester City and Watford.
