Former Barcelona player and legend Rivaldo has opposed the idea that Lionel Messi could be the greatest player of all time in the history of football.
After reaching the incredible individual milestone earlier this week, Messi has further propelled himself in the conversation to be considered among the best footballers ever.
And Rivaldo, who is the all-time 6th top scorer for Barca, has insisted that although Messi deserved his record seventh Ballon d’Or, he is still not the greatest footballer of all time. While speaking with Betfair, he said:
“He [Messi] deserved the award based on his performances for Argentina as they won the Copa America – a trophy they have coveted for many years – and he was the best player of the tournament.”
“The arguments about the Ballon D’or will never cease, owing to the fact that there are so many voters from all over the world and so many football talents around”
“I could have made the case for Karim Benzema, along with [Robert] Lewandowski and Messi, but in the end, the award must go to one player.
“It’s possible the Argentinian’s amazing career also had some influence on those voters who were wavering.
“He will be remembered as one of the best players ever, but it’s tough to say he already is the best, because he is still looking for a World Cup title with Argentina.”
“Other players, such as Pele, won the World Cup many times so I don’t think Messi should be considered the best ever.
“Though we cannot deny the fact that he is up there. Infact, he would make the top three”
