The debate over who the greatest footballer of all time is will likely never reach a definitive conclusion, and Ronaldinho is comfortable with that, as he doesn’t have a clear favorite.
For the past 20 years, this discussion has been dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have nearly monopolized the Ballon d’Or since 2008, with only Luka Modric and Karim Benzema managing to interrupt their reign…Continue Reading
Messi’s World Cup victory in 2022 seemingly strengthened his case as the GOAT in the football world. However, Ronaldinho believes the debate isn’t that straightforward.
Even with Messi’s eight Ballon d’Or awards, four Champions League trophies, 10 La Liga titles, and numerous accolades with PSG and Argentina, Ronaldinho feels it isn’t enough to definitively crown him as the best player in history.
That’s the view of Ronaldinho, who told Marca: “I’m glad Messi won the Ballon d’Or. We were also friends during our time at Barcelona. But I don’t like to compare, and I find it difficult to say he is the best of all time.”
Still, the former Brazil player did suggest Messi is the greatest of his generation, putting him ahead of Ronaldo.
However, looking at the bigger picture, Ronaldinho could not neglect some of the most impressive players of bygone eras.
He added: “There was Maradona, Pele, Ronaldo [Nazario]… it’s hard to say that Messi is the best throughout the history of football. I can only say he is the best of his era.”
Diego Maradona and Pele are both considered among the most accomplished and gifted footballers of the 20th century. Meanwhile, Brazilian striker Ronaldo rose to prominence as one of the most prolific and naturally talented forwards of the 1990s and early 2000s.
Although Ronaldinho hesitates to name Messi as the GOAT, Messi holds great admiration for his former teammate.
The Argentine legend credits Ronaldinho with revitalizing Barcelona and playing a pivotal role in restoring the club to its winning ways.
Messi claims “Barca should always be grateful for everything [Ronaldinho] did,” and praised the way the Brazilian legend brought happiness to the Nou Camp.
