Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Makes his GOAT Pick, “It’s Not Ronaldo”

Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Makes his GOAT Pick, “It’s Not Ronaldo”

  • Mikel Arteta has made his stance clear on who truly deserves the crown of the greatest footballer of all time
  • The Arsenal boss' choice is not different from other legendary names to have snubbed Cristiano Ronaldo in the GOAT debate
  • Meanwhile, Arteta is bent on ending his side's Premier League trophy drought after coming close on two occasions

The debate over who holds the title of the greatest footballer of all time remains a hot topic, fuelling passionate discussions on five-a-side pitches and pub tables worldwide.

Though Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have dominated the game for nearly two decades, the argument shows no signs of subsiding.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta picked his greatest footballer of all time without hesitation. Photos by Yasser Baksh, David Price and Megan Briggs.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta picked his greatest footballer of all time without hesitation. Photos: Yasser Baksh, David Price and Megan Briggs.
Source: UGC

Mikel Arteta 'settles' GOAT debate

Weighing in on the subject is none other than Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, a man who knows a thing or two about the beautiful game.

Read also

Messi unveils new 'Iron Man' celebration after spectacular goal for Inter Miami

As he leads the North London outfit in pursuit of their first Premier League title in almost two decades, Arteta confidently voiced his opinion on the GOAT debate.

During an interview with Sky Sports, the former Manchester City No.2 was asked to name his favourite player to watch.

Without hesitation, the Spaniard responded, "It’s always been Messi. I can't deny it. For me and my three sons, it's exactly the same.
"We have been incredibly fortunate to witness, in my opinion, the best player of all time over so many years," he boldly declared, as quoted by Bolavip.

Arteta snubs Ronaldo and co., insists on Messi

Despite the interviewer mentioning legends such as Diego Maradona and Cristiano Ronaldo, Arteta remained resolute in his choice, per Yard Barker.

He emphasised that his conclusion was drawn from years of watching Messi and comparing his brilliance with others.

Read also

Boniface names Brazilian legend as GOAT, snubs Messi and Ronaldo

"The difference is huge for me. So, it has to be Messi," Arteta reaffirmed.

Messi's extraordinary talent, paired with his staggering collection of trophies and Ballon d'Or awards, should settle the debate for many.

His vision, close control, and ability to turn a game on its head are unparalleled.

However, others argue that Ronaldo’s unmatched athleticism, consistency, and goal-scoring ability make him a worthy contender for the title.

Ronaldo’s success across different leagues, combined with his longevity at the highest level, keeps him firmly in the conversation.

Regardless, both have redefined excellence in their own ways, making it difficult to choose between them.

When Jose Mourinho settled the GOAT debate

Earlier, Briefly News reported that the Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate has fueled conversations in barbershops, bars, and social media for years.

These two football legends have scored hundreds of goals, shattered numerous records, and claimed countless trophies. Former Real Madrid and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho recently weighed in, offering his take on this ongoing debate.

PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU - click on “Recommended for you” and enjoy!

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Justin Williams avatar

Justin Williams (Editor) Justin Williams is a multimedia journalist who recently completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Film & Multimedia Production and English Literary Studies from the University of Cape Town. He is a former writer and chief editor at Right for Education Africa: South African chapter. You can contact Justin at justin.williams@briefly.co.za