Deji WilliamsThe debate over who is the greatest football player of all time (GOAT) has been raging for years, with two names consistently at the center: Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. While fans, pundits, and players alike have shared their opinions, football legend Zinedine Zidane’s voice adds an extra layer of weight to the conversation. Recently, the former Real Madrid coach and French icon offered his thoughts on the debate, giving his pick between the two footballing giants.
A Unique Perspective
Zidane is in a rare position to comment on this debate. Having coached Cristiano Ronaldo during his successful stint at Real Madrid, Zidane had a front-row seat to witness Ronaldo’s brilliance, helping him win multiple Champions League titles. At the same time, Zidane has long admired Messi’s unique talents and consistently praised the Argentine for his impact on the game.
With this close connection to both players—one as a coach and the other as an admirer—many were curious to hear Zidane’s take on who he believes is the GOAT.
Zidane’s Choice: Cristiano Ronaldo
In a recent interview, Zidane finally made his pick, and it’s no surprise that he leaned toward his former player, Cristiano Ronaldo. The French legend praised Ronaldo not just for his goal-scoring ability but for his relentless work ethic, leadership on the field, and commitment to winning. Zidane described Ronaldo as “the ultimate competitor” and “a machine,” highlighting how his mentality and drive set him apart from many other players.
Zidane’s choice comes from firsthand experience, having seen how Ronaldo raised the level of his teammates during their time together at Real Madrid. Zidane has always credited Ronaldo’s presence as a key factor in the club’s sustained success, particularly in the Champions League, where Ronaldo was instrumental in helping the team win four titles in five years.
Respect for Lionel Messi
Despite his pick, Zidane made it clear that his decision wasn’t meant to diminish Lionel Messi’s extraordinary career. He was quick to point out that Messi’s natural talent, creativity, and ability to make the impossible look effortless are unmatched. Zidane praised Messi’s consistency over the years and acknowledged that his rivalry with Ronaldo has elevated football to new heights.
However, for Zidane, it was Ronaldo’s complete package—his physicality, technical ability, and mental toughness—that gave him the edge in the GOAT debate. He emphasized that while Messi is undoubtedly one of the best players ever, Ronaldo’s unique combination of talent and determination makes him his choice.
A Never-Ending Debate
Zidane’s comments will undoubtedly fuel the ongoing GOAT debate, a conversation that continues to divide football fans worldwide. Both Messi and Ronaldo have achieved remarkable success, winning numerous Ballon d’Ors, domestic league titles, and international honors. Messi’s recent World Cup win with Argentina in 2022 has only added to his legendary status, while Ronaldo’s career, spanning several top clubs and international triumphs, solidifies his place among the all-time greats.
Ultimately, Zidane’s choice reflects his personal experience and connection with Ronaldo, but it’s a debate that will likely never have a definitive answer. What’s certain is that both Ronaldo and Messi have left an indelible mark on the game, and football is better for having witnessed their brilliance.
The Legacy of Two Giants
As the careers of both Ronaldo and Messi enter their twilight years, the debate over who is the GOAT will continue to dominate discussions among fans, players, and pundits alike. Whether you’re Team Ronaldo or Team Messi, there’s no denying that both players have redefined what it means to be a footballer, and their legacies will endure for generations to come.
For now, Zidane has made his pick, but the beauty of this debate lies in its subjectivity—everyone has their own view, and every fan gets to celebrate the greatness of these two icons in their own way.
