Gary Lineker stands by Messi choice in Ronaldo GOAT debate, gives reason
Former England striker Gary Lineker has reiterated his belief that Lionel Messi is a better footballer than Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting that the opinion should not be viewed as a criticism of the Portugal captain.
Speaking on The Louis Theroux Podcast, Lineker explained why he considers Messi the greatest player he has seen, while also expressing admiration for Ronaldo’s achievements throughout his career.
The former Barcelona forward said Messi’s combination of longevity, vision and technical ability places him above every other player of his generation.
Messi remains Lineker’s benchmark
Lineker revealed that he once believed Diego Maradona would remain the best player of his lifetime before Messi changed his view.
“Of my lifetime. I never thought I’d see a better player than Diego,” he said.
“He might not necessarily be a better player, but he’s lived better therefore he has had greater longevity. And I think you have to take that into account.”
The former striker praised Messi’s all-round game, highlighting qualities beyond his goalscoring and dribbling ability.
“Take away all the goals and the dribbles and stuff. His passing and his vision, I just don’t know how it’s humanly possible,” Lineker added.
“He’s given me 20 years of joy watching him.”
Ronaldo comparison sparks fallout
While acknowledging Ronaldo’s remarkable career, Lineker maintained there is a clear distinction between the two football icons when it comes to natural talent.
“I absolutely think he’s an incredible footballer, but there’s no argument about who is the better footballer. Anyone that understands the game will see that,” he said.
The former England international stressed that comparing Ronaldo with Messi should be viewed as praise rather than criticism of the Portuguese star.
“In many eras, he’d be the best player of his time. But the fact that he’s actually put in the same breath and lots of people do make the comparison is a huge compliment to him.”
Lineker added: “Because he hasn’t got the ability that Messi has. No one has. But it’s not an insult to Ronaldo to say that.”
The 64-year-old also disclosed that his stance on the debate appears to have affected his relationship with Ronaldo.
“Ronaldo gets annoyed, he doesn’t speak to me anymore,” Lineker said.
“We used to get on all right. Then suddenly I was interviewed and asked who’s the better player. Well, Messi. And then he doesn’t like you anymore.”