For fifteen years, the question has haunted TV sets and social networks: who of Messi or Ronaldo deserves the title of greatest player in history? Statistics, trophies and records have long nourished the suspense. But this week, the former English international Gary Lineker ended the debate, at least in his eyes.
Invited to deliver his verdict, the ex-presenter of the BBC appointed Lionel Messi as the real goat. For Lineker, the Argentinian upsets not only Cristiano Ronaldo, but also all the legends of the game. A declaration without nuance: “It is simply above”, he said. The former Leicester goalscorer goes even further: he believes that the Portuguese does not even appear in its historic top 4.
Messi at the top, Ronaldo… Excluded from the podium
For Lineker, the hierarchy is clear: Pelé, Maradona, Ronaldo Nazario… and Messi. A quartet which he considers his personal “rushmore”. He concedes that the Brazilian could have become the greatest without his injuries, but insists: Messi evolves on another planet. This assumed choice is not without consequences: Lineker confides that Cristiano Ronaldo has cut the bridges with him since his words.
Despite this categorical outing, the debate is far from closed. Because if Messi has the support of a part of the world of football – especially since his world coronation with Argentina -, Ronaldo retains a faithful fans, admiring his longevity and his efficiency.
Basically, what Lineker expresses is perhaps the idea that there is a dimension of football that the figures cannot measure. And for him, Messi embodies this magic better than anyone.
