The GOAT? Mbappe, Pele… players who picked Ronaldo over Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo in the news again for GOAT debate
In a recent interview, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri, expressed his belief that Argentine icon Lionel Messi is a better player than his Portuguese counterpart, Cristiano Ronaldo, even going so far as to declare Messi the greatest footballer in history. This statement has reignited the longstanding rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi, a debate that has captivated fans and professionals alike for years.
From their contrasting styles to their record-breaking achievements, these two football legends have consistently earned admiration from players and coaches around the world. This piece delves into the perspectives of top footballers and managers on what many consider the greatest rivalry in the history of the sport.
Iker Casillas: The choice of Ronaldo by the Real Madrid and Spanish legend should come as no surprise; it is, in fact, entirely expected. The former FC Porto goalkeeper had the privilege of playing alongside Ronaldo at Madrid from 2009 to 2015. Regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history, the Spaniard was naturally inclined to select Ronaldo when asked to compare the two iconic players. “I’d choose Cristiano over Messi because he is a player who gives us so much every season, and he is a player I spend time with every day,” he said.
Patrice Evra: ormer Manchester United teammate Patrice Evra has consistently praised Ronaldo’s incredible discipline, describing him as the ultimate professional. Evra often highlights how Ronaldo’s mentality distinguishes him from other players, sharing stories of the Portuguese icon’s unmatched work ethic and dedication to the sport.
Ryan Giggs: Former Manchester United teammate Ryan Giggs has remained loyal to Ronaldo, often favoring the Portuguese icon. Reflecting on their shared experiences at United, Giggs expressed his support for Ronaldo, saying, “Well, obviously, I played with Cristiano, so I’m going to go with Cristiano. But they are both great players. We’re living in an era where we’re seeing true legends at their best, going head-to-head each season. It’s special to witness, but Cristiano has done it in Portugal, in England, in La Liga, and on the international stage with Portugal as well. I think Cristiano just edges it for me, but only just.”
However, these are players who have shared significant moments with Ronaldo at the same club, so it’s only natural that they hold a deep admiration for the Portuguese icon. Below is a list of players who may not have had a substantial professional relationship with Ronaldo but still admire him greatly.
Pele: Heralded by many as the greatest footballer of all time, the Brazilian football legend, who passed away in 2020, declared Ronaldo as his preferred GOAT. While he had been inconsistent in his choice between Ronaldo and Messi over the years, he stated, “Today, the best player in the world is Cristiano Ronaldo. I think he’s the best because he’s more consistent. But you can’t forget about Lionel Messi, of course, though he is not a striker.”
Kylian Mbappe: Apart from Pelé, who never shared a professional football moment with Ronaldo at the same club or in the same country, another admirer of the Portuguese icon is French superstar Kylian Mbappé. Unlike many who hesitate or show resentment when choosing between the two icons, Mbappé has been fond of Ronaldo since his childhood. The French talisman, who joined Real Madrid this summer, has openly stated on several occasions that Ronaldo is his preferred player. He has even shared photos of himself with Ronaldo on his social media accounts.
Mbappé, often viewed as the heir to the legacy of both Ronaldo and Messi, expressed his thoughts on the debate when asked by the press: “From one year to the next, my choice changes between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, even if I admit I pick Ronaldo more often. I loved him when I was younger.”
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