The debate over who is the best football (soccer) player ever is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences, eras, and criteria. Three players who are often mentioned in this debate are Pelé, Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. Let’s briefly argue for each of them:
Pelé:
- Goal Scoring Record: Pelé is often celebrated for his incredible goal-scoring record. He scored over 1,000 goals in his professional career, a feat that remains unmatched by any other player in the history of the sport.
- World Cup Success: Pelé won three FIFA World Cups with Brazil in 1958, 1962, and 1970. His performances in these tournaments were instrumental in Brazil’s success, making him one of the most iconic World Cup players.
- Versatility: Pelé was known for his versatility on the field. He could score goals with both feet, head the ball effectively, and had a great sense of positioning. His ability to play in multiple attacking positions made him a unique talent.
Diego Maradona:
- Individual Brilliance: Maradona is often praised for his incredible dribbling skills, close ball control, and ability to take on multiple defenders. His famous “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” in the 1986 World Cup are testament to his individual brilliance.
- World Cup Heroics: Maradona single-handedly led Argentina to victory in the 1986 FIFA World Cup. He scored or assisted in more than half of Argentina’s goals in the tournament and is often regarded as one of the greatest World Cup performances in history.
- Impact on the Game: Maradona’s influence on football extended beyond his playing career. He inspired a generation of players and had a profound impact on the sport in Argentina and around the world.
Lionel Messi:
- Consistency: Messi has maintained an exceptionally high level of performance throughout his career. He has consistently been one of the top goal-scorers and playmakers in the world for over a decade.
- Individual Records: Messi has broken numerous individual records, including the most Ballon d’Or awards (as of 2023, he had won it seven times), and he holds the record for the most goals in a calendar year.
- Club Success: Messi spent the majority of his career at FC Barcelona, where he helped the team win numerous domestic and international titles, including multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles. His partnership with Barcelona was iconic and led to an era of dominance.
- Versatility and Skill: Messi is known for his incredible dribbling, close ball control, and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His ability to score from different positions on the field sets him apart.
- Consistency at the Highest Level: Messi has consistently performed at the highest level for both club and country. He has been a key figure in the Argentine national team’s recent successes, including winning the Copa America in 2021.
- Longevity: Messi has maintained his high level of play well into his 30s, showing his ability to adapt and continue to excel as he ages.
Pele and Maradona were before my time, and while I’ve had the chance to study their achievements and view clips of them in action, I doubt I can fully appreciate their greatness having not witnessed it first hand. So I’ll pick the name that I’ve watched play since I was a kid, I’ll say Lionel Messi is my G.O.A.T.
Wilfried Zaha not just wan gree shaaaa
To me it will still be Ronaldo