ISL 2017: Dimitar Berbatov picks FC Barcelona's Andres Iniesta ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi

What’s the story?

Kerala Blasters star Dimitar Berbatov has played with some of the best football players from around the world, and is one of the best-placed players in ISL 2017 to judge them.

When asked to pick between the two biggest football stars, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, Berbatov made a rather surprising choice – Andres Iniesta.

In case you didn’t know

Berbatov has had a successful career in Europe, starring for top teams like Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. The Bulgarian had even played alongside five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo. However, according to him, Ronaldo is not the best in the business.

Heart of the matter

When asked to pick between the Real Madrid and the FC Barcelona stars, Berbatov made a rather surprising choice.

“I say I liked Iniesta even more than Messi or Ronaldo because he creates for his teammates and he doesn’t want the spotlight,” said Berbatov.

The 36-year-old may be at the fag end of his career in the ISL, but he further hinted that he may continue to be a part of football after his Kerala Blasters stint.

“I’ve come from Bulgaria to teach the young kids here about football,” said the Bulgarian.

"Every footballer things he is a good coach but most of them are not successful in coaching. I have a lot of friend as coaches and have learned that coaching has more stress than playing," he said.

What’s next?

While Berbatov is one of the biggest stars in ISL this season, having an experienced head like him coaching in India could be something that is quite beneficial for the football players in the country.

Author’s take

Messi and Ronaldo may have taken all the laurels in the world of football over the last few years, Iniesta has largely been regarded by many pundits as one of the best football players of the generation. Hence, it is no surprise that the Berbatov has picked the Spaniard.