Frank Leboeuf has never had his tongue in his pocket. Questioned by the British media OLBGthe former Chelsea defender and 1998 world champion delivered a direct message to Cristiano Ronaldo, at a time when the rivalry with Lionel Messi returns to the debates after their recent respective exploits. A message which, against all expectations, takes the form of assumed encouragement.
“Cristiano is right to think he is better than Messi”
For Leboeuf, Ronaldo should never doubt his greatness. “Cristiano Ronaldo is absolutely right to think he is better than Lionel Messi. He has always lived to challenge himself, to prove that he can be the best.” A statement that contrasts with the usual caution of former players when approaching the duel between the two legends. “He’s 40 years old, and he still has the right to believe that he’s at the top. And I’m sure Messi thinks exactly the same thing. That’s what makes them exceptional.”
The former French defender stressed that this opposition had “changed modern football”. For him, Ronaldo and Messi have redefined the standards of elite sport: “They lifted each other up for fifteen years, they pushed the limits of what was possible.” Leboeuf believes that their comparison ultimately no longer makes sense, as they each dominated in their own way — one through rigor, the other through genius.
A competitive philosophy
If he supports Ronaldo in his conviction, Leboeuf refuses the game of confrontation: “I’m happy that he feels like that. Messi, too, has the right to think he’s the best. It’s a question of ego, but also of pride. These two players have made history, each with their own style.” An elegant way to defuse the rivalry while promoting the Portuguese’s competitive mentality.
This message, far beyond a simple opinion, resembles a lesson in mentality. Leboeuf celebrates Ronaldo’s unwavering confidence, symbol of a generation that refuses resignation. In a football that is often quick to oppose, he advocates the mutual recognition of giants. And, through his words, reminds us that greatness is not measured only in Ballons d’Or, but in the intimate conviction of having given everything for the game.
