After years of straddling the fence, German football star Thomas Müller has finally weighed in on football’s most polarising question: Who is the greatest of all time — Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo?
For over a decade and a half, the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry has defined modern football. Their brilliance has split fans, inspired generations, and elevated the sport to new heights.
Both men have rewritten record books — from goals and trophies to moments of magic that have become etched in football folklore.
Messi, the prodigy of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, boasts a staggering eight Ballon d’Or awards, the most in history.
His career is decorated with triumphs that include two Copa América titles and the crowning jewel — the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he led Argentina to glory.
Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, has carved his name into football’s elite with five Ballon d’Ors, a testament to his relentless drive and longevity.
His journey began at Sporting Lisbon, before Manchester United snapped him up for £12 million in 2003. From there, he conquered England with three Premier League titles and a Champions League, before joining Real Madrid in 2009 — a move that transformed football’s greatest rivalry into an era-defining spectacle.
Their legendary El Clásico duels became must-watch events, pitting Ronaldo’s power and precision against Messi’s artistry and vision.
On the international stage, Ronaldo has also led Portugal to European Championship and Nations League glory — cementing his legacy as a winner wherever he goes.
Müller picks Messi over Ronaldo
Müller, who has faced both icons on football’s biggest stages, once leaned toward Ronaldo in the GOAT debate. But time — and perspective — have shifted his stance.
In a chat with MLS, the new Vancouver Whitecaps forward finally took a clear position.
“Lionel Messi is the GOAT,” Müller declared, as quoted by GOAL. “In my first 10 years as a professional player, I would have chosen Cristiano Ronaldo, but since the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, it’s been Messi for me. Now, as I get older and more romantic myself, playing style and aesthetics are more important to me than individual performance, work ethic, and so on. Both are absolutely crazy. I don’t know why it worked so often against him [Messi].”
The quote offers rare introspection from one of football’s most intelligent minds — a player who’s battled both Messi and Ronaldo on the grandest stages, from Champions League nights to World Cups.
A debate that may never end
Müller’s verdict adds a fascinating layer to an argument that refuses to fade. While fans continue to split hairs over stats, trophies, and influence, Müller’s perspective captures something deeper — an appreciation for the beauty and emotion of the game.
For him, Messi’s artistry has stood the test of time. And in football’s eternal GOAT debate, perhaps that is the most romantic answer of all.