Arsenal legend Robert Pires names Real Madrid star as best player in the world right now
Arsenal legend Robert Pires believes Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is the best player in the world right now. The French former midfielder spent some time on The Residency, an app which lets fans chat with footballers.
When asked to name the best player in the world, Pires said (via Madrid Xtra):
"Bellingham."
Bellingham is coming off an impressive club season with Real Madrid and has been instrumental in England's run to the semi-finals in the ongoing Euro 2024. He helped Los Blancos win La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, scoring 23 goals and providing 11 assists in 39 appearances across the two competitions.
At the ongoing European Championship, Bellingham has scored two of England's five goals. He scored the winner in their tournament opener against Serbia and scored a crucial equalizer in their Round of 16 tie against Slovakia.
The Three Lions will face the Netherlands on July 10 in the competition's semi-finals.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright questions Gunners' target for poor performance at EURO 2024
The Gunners have reportedly set their sights on Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Xavi Simons, after the Parisian club sent him out on loan to RB Leipzig last season. Although he played well for the Bundesliga outfit, the Parisians are willing to send him out on loan again for the 2024-25 season.
Simons is currently playing for the Netherlands at Euro 2024 and his performances have been keenly followed by potential suitors, including the Gunners.
However, he has not impressed Arsenal legend Ian Wright, who talked about the PSG midfielder on his podcast, Wrighty's House. Wright said (via Just Arsenal):
"A player I was a little bit disappointed with from the Netherlands, Xavi Simons. I was expecting a little bit more in respects of him on the ball."
The 21-year-old still has lots of potential, despite what Ian Wright sees as a sub-par performance in the continental tournament. It is worth noting that Xavi Simons has enjoyed some bright moments, providing two assists in their 3-0 Round of 16 win over Romania.