India, Nov. 9 -- Lionel Messi has once again shown his sharp wit and unrivalled footballing mind, this time off the pitch. After shockingly leaving out long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo from a ranking list for the best player in the world after him, Messi pulled off what some are calling a masterful dodge.

The 38-year-old, who is now in the twilight of his career, was asked by an interviewer who he thinks are the best players in the world after him.

"Who is the best player in the world apart from Messi?" asked the interviewer. "You can't pick yourself. Who is the best?"

Messi picked a number of players from Europe and Latin America, most of whom were his former teammates at the club or international level.

"It is hard to pick because ...