Lionel Messi is no stranger to praise. And this time, it’s a reaffirmation from a Chelsea icon. This seems to have frustrated the fans of Cristiano Ronaldo though. But, the former star has no regrets. He has doubled down on his claim that Messi, for him, will remain the greatest player of all time.

Despite this, it is expected that the debate among soccer fans will continue. The conversations and claims will likely increase, as the two are now set to face each other in the Riyadh Cup in Saudi Arabia.

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On the Obi One Podcast, John Obi-Mikel, who made 249 appearances for Chelsea, had little hesitation in selecting his pick. He revealed, “Ronaldo is a fantastic football player he’s done so. I will never doubt or discredit what Ronaldo’s achieved as a football player and as a person but in my opinion, the greatest football player is the goat is Messi, simple”

Doubling down on his regard for Messi, he said, “I think Messi is the greatest football player ever for me. If a Cristiano Ronaldo fan is upset with what I’ve said or whoever fan is upset with what I’ve said you know it’s their opinion, but this is my opinion”

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John Obi-Mikel further expressed that winning the World Cup sealed the greatest status for Lionel Messi. He added that he did not like some fans twisting the facts that the tournament was staged for the Argentine to win it.

Cristiano Ronaldo returns to form, aims for a better 2024

The 38-year-old has turned things around with Al Nassr and Portugal. He is enjoying a new chapter in Saudi Arabia. After a return to form, Cristiano Ronaldo became the second player after Erling Haaland to score 50 goals in 2023. His team Al Nassr very much remains in contention to win the Saudi Pro League despite trailing seven points behind leaders and rivals Al Hilal.

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They have also progressed to the next round of the AFC Champions League and the semi-final of the Kings Cup. And so, the Portuguese star has the opportunity to win the treble. He will also spearhead Portugal’s national team in their 2024 Euros campaign. It looks like the 38-year-old has an exciting 2024 on his hands. A chance at redemption?

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule