Of course it isn't meanigless, I agree it affects morale, and that comment was unnecessary at least, but Ranieri is too honest and that is why he looks a bit silly when he's speaking to the media. However, there were so many his other comments praising Tiago throughout the season, even in the last days, that this one comment is like a drop in the ocean - but you continue to refer to this one over and over again, like if Ranieri is saying that about Tiago every day.