Gary Lineker Names Lionel Messi Above Diego Maradona in GOAT Debate
Speaking on The Louis Theroux Podcast, former England striker Gary Lineker delivered a striking assessment of football’s greatest players, placing Lionel Messi above even legendary compatriot Diego Maradona in his personal ranking. Lineker praised Messi’s longevity, consistency, and extraordinary technical ability, describing him as a player capable of producing moments beyond normal human expectation.
He reflected on his lifelong admiration for Maradona but suggested that Messi has surpassed him due to sustained excellence over a longer period. Lineker highlighted Messi’s vision, passing, and ability to influence games in ways he believes are unmatched in football history, adding that watching the Argentine superstar has provided him with decades of enjoyment.
“No One Has His Ability”: Lineker Defends Messi Praise
Despite his clear preference, Lineker was careful to clarify that his comments were not intended as a slight against Cristiano Ronaldo. He stressed his admiration for Ronaldo’s professionalism, work ethic, and goal-scoring record, noting that the Portuguese forward would be considered the best player in almost any other era.
However, Lineker maintained that Messi operates on a different technical level. He argued that while Ronaldo’s achievements are extraordinary, Messi’s natural ability sets him apart in pure footballing terms. His remarks underscored what he described as admiration rather than criticism, insisting that comparing the two remains a compliment to both careers.
Ronaldo Relationship Strain Over GOAT Comments
Lineker also revealed that his long-standing relationship with Ronaldo has been affected by his public stance in the GOAT debate. According to the former striker, Ronaldo took offence to his repeated preference for Messi, leading to a cooling of their personal relationship.
He explained that while they previously shared a cordial connection, the discussion around who is the greatest player ultimately created distance between them. Lineker emphasised that the reaction was understandable but reiterated that his opinion was based purely on footballing assessment rather than personal criticism.
World Cup Focus Returns for Football Icons
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, both Messi and Ronaldo remain central figures on the international stage. Messi, having already secured World Cup glory with Argentina in 2022, now leads his nation into another campaign with hopes of repeating history.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues his pursuit of the one major trophy missing from his collection as Portugal prepare for their own group stage challenge. As both icons approach the twilight of their careers, attention now turns to whether either can deliver one final defining moment on football’s biggest stage.
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