Al-Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo and Inter Miami ace Lionel Messi are both considered among the best soccer stars, and the pair often finds itself in debate. But ex-Portugal winger Nani has a different opinion about who is the best player of all time.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi Snubbed by Nani
During a recent rapid-fire question round with ESPN, Nani claimed that Brazil and Barcelona legend Ronaldinho Gaucho is the best soccer player, snubbing Ronaldo and Messi.
Ronaldinho, who helped Brazil win the 2002 FIFA World Cup, earned his name for his excellent displays at both club and international levels. He entertained crowds with his silky dribbling while playing for Barcelona, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
During his 20-year career, Ronaldinho became one of only eight players to have won the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA Champions League, and the Ballon d’Or. He also lifted two La Liga titles, a Serie A title, and a Copa America trophy as an influential number 10.
Nani, who played alongside Ronaldo 130 times for Portugal and Manchester United, decided not to respond with the Al-Nassr star’s name in any of the questions. He insisted that Brazil’s great Romario is the best finisher and named Messi as the best playmaker.
Furthermore, the former Sporting CP star asserted that ex-Red Devils ace Nemanja Vidic is the best defender. He named Belgium icon Michel Preud’homme as the best goalkeeper and former Brazil winger Denilson as the best dribbler of all time.
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Meanwhile, Argentina legend Angel Di Maria has revealed that Ronaldo is better than Messi in one notable aspect despite claiming the latter is the greatest player of all time.
“In terms of professionalism, Cristiano is number one. His work ethic, ability to maintain his level, constant effort to be the best while competing with Leo was truly commendable… but he coincided with Messi’s era, which significantly complicated his goal,” he told AS.
“Cristiano was all about hard work and his effort to be number one in the world, but Messi, drinking mate (South American herbal tea) in the locker room, later showed that he had a gift from God to be the best,” the Rosario Central winger concluded.
Di Maria, 37, has played alongside both Portuguese and Argentine players in his career. The left-footed man played alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid and shared the pitch with him while representing Argentina, PSG, and Argentina’s 2008 Olympic team.
