Lionel Messi achieved greatness after winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. However, many soccer fans still feel he cannot overtake legend Diego Maradona as the greatest player of all time. But it looks like an Argentinian legend has a distinct opinion from others. He feels that the 8x Ballon d’Or winner is now the finest player in the world. 

Lionel Messi will now hope for more glory with Argentina in the Copa America 2024. In terms of club commitment, he looks forward to a successful season with Inter Miami. Yet, Juan Román Riquelme gave his flowers to the little maestro. 

Argentinian legend makes a massive statement on Lionel Messi

Only a few lucky ones have played with both wizards of Argentina, Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona. One of them is the legendary Juan Román Riquelme. Therefore, with all his expertise, he made an eye-opening statement when asked about Messi and Maradona. He stated, “Maradona is the greatest player I saw when I was young, and now the greatest is Messi. I had the opportunity to play with both of them, and it was a big dream for me.”

Juan Román Riquelme has always had a long-standing relationship with the Inter Miami star. He played with the Argentinian captain in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. They also played together and won the gold medal for the country in the 2008 Olympics in China. Notably, Messi also played in Riquelme’s final match on 25th June at the La Bombonera stadium. It proves the mutual respect both have for each other.

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On the other hand, Maradona influenced Messi in some way or the other. The current Argentinian captain ushered heartwarming tributes to their national hero after the World Cup glory.

Diego Maradona has always had a tremendous impact on Messi

Messi, speaking of the significance of the No. 10 jersey, said, “For us Argentinians, the no. 10 is a very special number because you talk about no.10 and automatically, Maradona comes to your mind. Those of us who grew up playing football wanted to be like him.”

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The La Albiceleste captain also paid tribute to him after winning the Ballon d’Or on what would have been his 63rd birthday. He said, “Wherever you are, this is also for you. Happy birthday, Diego.” Meanwhile, Lionel Messi also had the opportunity to play under Maradona in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where the manager coached him. 

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From now on, the Argentinian fans will keep Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona as their two heroes of their nation. They did their best for the national team and restored the glory days. Is Riquelme right?