Every soccer fan, at some point, has taken sides in the age-old debate: Is Lionel Messi the GOAT, or is it Cristiano Ronaldo? The rivalry between these two legends has ignited passion in stadiums, pubs, and living rooms worldwide. Now, a 21-year-old Chelsea prodigy has stepped into the limelight with a bold declaration, ready to take sides.

Ronaldo and Messi, the twin titans of soccer, have rewritten history over their illustrious careers. They locked horns in the fierce La Liga rivalry for nine long years. Even now, as they approach the twilight of their careers, their legacy fuels the ongoing debate. But what has stirred this young UEFA Super Cup winner to add his voice to the conversation?

21-year-old Chelsea’s take on the Lionel Messi – Cristiano Ronaldo rivalry

We’re talking about Cole Palmer, who turned out to be a game-changer for Manchester City. He’s been making waves across the soccer scene – all thanks to his recent move to Chelsea. Recently, he sat down with Sky Sports for an intriguing discussion. 

As the dialogue kicked off, the host Smithy presented the ex-Manchester City star with a pressing question: “GOAT – the footballing GOAT – one name, who’re you saying?”

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Almost immediately, Palmer, who was holding onto a placard, wrote “Messi,” – pointing it to the camera. His rationale? “The obvious one, Messi because of the way he plays and all the individual awards he has won. Just the best player ever… Messi is clear for me.”

Firstly, he highlights Messi’s style of play as a defining characteristic. He lauds the Argentinian’s dribbling skills, close ball control, and ability to navigate through even the most challenging defensive setups. Moreover, Palmer references the Inter Miami star’s individual awards and seven Ballon d’Or wins as a compelling argument for his status as the GOAT.

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However, as per both Messi and Ronaldo – the rivalry between them is over. Over a month ago, the Al Nassr star confessed the same during an interview. And the Argentinian legend seemed to agree, as he followed up his ex-rival’s words with a similar statement.

Is the rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi over?

After Portugal’s 5-0 domination of Bosnia and Herzegovina at the UEFA EURO Qualifiers last month, Cristiano Ronaldo decided to clear the air around his rivalry with Lionel Messi.

During a post-match interview, he declared: “I don’t see things like that – the rivalry is gone.” He further elucidated, “Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don’t have to hate Messi and vice versa. We’ve done well, we have changed the history of football. We are respected all over the world, that’s the most important thing.”

On the other hand, it seems like the Inter Miami star has also put aside the long-standing rivalry for good. The Inter Miami star told Bien Sport: “At this stage of my career, I don’t focus on that[rivalry] anymore. I focus on what I was able to achieve with Argentina and the club level where I was lucky enough to win important titles like the UCL or Club World Cup, leagues, cups.”

Ronaldo and Messi have won 79 trophies collectively, leaving an indelible impact on soccer history. Not only have they been prolific goal scorers, but they’ve also achieved unparalleled success in the sport. The two legends are the only players to have scored over 800 goals each in their illustrious careers. So, what do you think? Do you agree with Palmer’s take on the GOAT debate? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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