Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo: When Jose Mourinho Settled the GOAT Debate

• The Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate has dominated barbershops, barstools, and social media for the last few years
• These two football veterans have scored hundreds of goals, broke many records and won countless trophies
• Former Real Madrid and Manchester United boss, Jose Mourinho, recently appeared to settle the endless debate

The GOAT debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi has raged for years, and there are no signs of it ending anytime soon.

Jose Mourinho coached Ronaldo and faced Messi at his peak. He recently shared his take on who is the best.

These two football icons were the best players on the planet for a decade when they played in Spain for Real Madrid and Barcelona. Messi or ROnaldo won the Ballon d'Or from 2008 to 2017.

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They won many trophies both at club and international levels and broke countless records. For many, Messi's 2022 World Cup win settled the debate. However, Ronaldo fans are not convinced.

Both players are in their late 30s, and their playing days are slowly coming to an end. Many legendary footballers have picked Messi over Ronaldo.

Mourinho settles GOAT debate

Messi recently led Argentina to Copa America glory, while Ronaldo's Portugal fell short at Euro 2024.

Recently, Mourinho gave his take on the debate when answering quick-fire questions on TNT Sports. In his answer, he appeared to conclude that Messi is better than Ronaldo.

“Of course, the little guy, that little guy was not coachable, but I have to say in our generation, he [Messi] was the best,” he said.

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Ronaldo played 164 matches under the Portuguese coach and registered 168 goals and 49 assists, per Transfermarkt.

Inter Miami celebrate Messi

Briefly News also reported that Inter Miami celebrated Messi for becoming the most decorated footballer.

45 academy players each held a poster representing all of Messi's trophies, including 10 La Liga titles, two French Ligue 1 crowns, four Champions Leagues, and the 2022 World Cup.

Source: TUKO.co.ke