Lionel Messi, Maradona, and Pele: Who is greatest player of all time?

Lionel Messi has once again found himself at the center of the greatest-of-all-time (GOAT) debate. 

Renowned Dutch football legend Patrick Kluivert, a former Barcelona player and one of the best strikers of the 1990s, unequivocally declared Messi as the greatest player ever, placing him above football icons such as Diego Maradona, Pele, and Johan Cruyff. 

Kluivert's endorsement of Messi's greatness stems from the Argentine's monumental achievements, including leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and his extensive list of personal and club accolades. 

In a recent interview, he expressed his admiration for Messi's remarkable career by saying, "With all due respect to Diego Maradona, Pele, and Johan Cruyff, and to all the other game legends, what Messi has achieved makes him the greatest player ever."

While acknowledging the other legends of the game, Kluivert highlighted Messi's unparalleled success in winning seven Golden Balls, numerous Champions League trophies, and his triumphs in the World Cup and Copa America. The former Barcelona captain stressed that Messi had conquered every possible trophy in the sport, cementing his status as one of, if not the, greatest player ever.

The affirmation from Kluivert, who had the opportunity to witness Messi's rise to superstardom during their shared time at Barcelona, reignites the ongoing debate surrounding football's greatest player. It places Messi in a league of his own, above the likes of Maradona, Pele, and Cruyff, further fueling discussions among fans, players, and pundits.

The GOAT debate has long captivated the football world, with opinions divided and passionate arguments exchanged. However, Kluivert's explicit endorsement of Messi carries significant weight, given his own storied career and deep understanding of the game. The Dutch legend's praise further solidifies Messi's claim to the throne and adds a new perspective to the discourse.

As Messi embarks on the next chapter of his career in the Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, his status as one of the greatest footballers to have graced the sport remains unchallenged. With each passing accolade and record shattered, Messi's legacy continues to grow, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the beautiful game.

In the words of Kluivert, "I consider Messi as one of, if not the greatest ever." This sentiment reverberates through the football community, further intensifying the admiration and appreciation for Lionel Messi's exceptional talent and undeniable impact on the sport.