Who Does Diego Maradona Believe Outshines Cristiano Ronaldo in the GOAT Debate?

In the ever-contentious debate surrounding the greatest footballer of all time, Diego Maradona has stirred the pot by naming not one, but three players he believes surpass Cristiano Ronaldo. Maradona, the legendary Argentine whose very name resonates with football greatness, shared his thoughts with AS via Sports Illustrated, suggesting that Ronaldo should reconsider his position in the GOAT hierarchy.

“Ronaldo said he is the best ever? Tell him to stop talking nonsense! The best? For me...From what little I saw of them, Alfredo Di Stéfano, [Johan] Cruyff… and Messi, but it can be Cristiano too,” said Maradona, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning how he ranks these football icons.

Alfredo Di Stéfano, an often-overlooked titan from the 1950s, was integral in Real Madrid's historic success, contributing to five consecutive European Cup victories. Despite the passage of time, his statistics testify to his dominance, with two Ballon d'Or awards accentuating his influence. Di Stéfano not only scored in each of those decisive finals but helped Madrid secure eight league titles, crafting a legacy that still echoes today.

Then we have Johan Cruyff, who revolutionised football not merely through his playing style but also as a manager. His pivotal role in the Ajax 'Total Football' era saw him lead his team to three consecutive European Cups in the early 1970s, alongside three Ballon d'Or awards. The idea of Cruyff and Maradona playing together is a tantalising thought, a pairing that could have transformed the football landscape.

Finally, there’s Lionel Messi, a player who has performed at an incomprehensible level throughout his career. His 2022 World Cup triumph with Argentina finally put to rest the only lingering doubt about his legacy—his failure to capture the prestigious trophy that marred his otherwise stellar career.

Maradona's assessment encourages a rich discussion about legacies and the qualities that define greatness in football. While critics may argue about the eras, the impact each player had on the game cannot be diminished. As the debate rages on, one must consider how these players not only shaped their teams' successes but also inspired generations.

In conclusion, Diego Maradona's bold claims add fresh fuel to the ongoing GOAT debate. Who do you think deserves the title? Is it Cristiano Ronaldo, or do Di Stéfano, Cruyff, and Messi deserve that honour? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

• Cristiano Ronaldo
• Diego Maradona
• Lionel Messi