Lionel Messi wins the GOAT debate “by far,” according to Cristiano Ronaldo, and Angel Di Maria explains why the Argentine icon is “the best.”
Di Maria is among the selected few who can say that they have performed with both of the greatest footballers of all time. In addition to winning six major titles with Ronaldo at Real Madrid, he also had Copa America and World Cup victories as Messi’s international teammate.
At Real Madrid, he had great success with Ronaldo, winning six major championships. As Messi’s international teammate, he has also relished Copa America and World Cup victories.
Di Maria is better suited than most to decide which of the perennial rivals is the best because of his position. The veteran winger is still supporting his legendary countryman, which is not surprising.
“I’ve always said the same thing – they are the two best in history,” Di Maria once declared to Juan Pablo Varsky on Clank. However, it’s clear that Leo is by far the best. It’s due to everything, not just the eight Ballon d’Or honors he has received. Cristiano is all effort, all the time. Messi, however, is a divine gift of talent. He can be the best without going above and beyond.
“Cristiano had to train hard, spend hours in the gym, perfect his finishing, and always push himself,” the former Argentina international continued. Leo, though, seems to be playing with buddies. That explains why they differ so greatly. Leo is unparalleled.
When Di Maria and Messi won gold in Beijing during the 2008 Olympic Games, it was their first triumph together. The 36-year-old remarked of the moment, “It was such a unique feeling for me.” Sharing the Olympics with him, conversing with him, and simply being in his presence was amazing. It was very unique. I never thought we would be on the same national team for 16 years, but I made the most of those Olympics because you never know when you’ll get that sort of opportunity again.
Messi and Di Maria both became international champions in terms of caps, and the latter announced his retirement from Argentina following a Copa America victory in 2024. Although Di Maria is still on the books at Benfica for the time being, there have been rumors that the two may reconnect at MLS team Inter Miami.
