Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi? When Yaya Toure picked his GOAT
Seven years ago, Yaya Toure made his pick between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in an interview. The pair are considered two of the best players ever to play the sport by many sections of fans. Debates continue to rage over who is the true GOAT.
During his playing days, Toure, a fabulous midfielder played alongside Messi for 6131 minutes across 92 games and combined with him for four goals. On the other hand, he faced Ronaldo eight times, winning two games, drawing three, and losing three.
When asked who was the GOAT, the midfielder analyzed his experiences with the two legendary superstars to make his decision. He said (via BeSoccer):
"Always Messi. The boy has it all"
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated world football for over a decade, claiming a total of 13 Ballon d'Or awards. Now 39 and 37 years old respectively, they play for Al-Nassr (Saudi Pro League) and Inter Miami (MLS).
"We fed off each other's rivalry because we're both great competitors" - When Lionel Messi spoke about his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo
Last year, Lionel Messi hailed his eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo for the rivalry they shared on the pitch. The pair enjoyed a run of dominance that was wholly unprecedented in the sport, claiming 13 out of the last 16 Ballon d'Or awards.
Messi began his career with Barcelona after coming through their youth ranks and went on to become their greatest player. He played 778 games and scored 672 goals and provided 303 assists to help the Catalan side to four UEFA Champions League titles, 10 LaLiga crowns, and seven Copa del Rey wins.
Speaking with L'Equipe (via GOAL), the Argentine maestro discussed his titanic battle with Cristiano Ronaldo, saying:
"It was a great battle, from a sporting point of view. We fed off each other's rivalry because we're both great competitors. He, too, always wanted to win everything, all the time. It was a very enjoyable time for both of us and for everyone who loves football."
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner added:
"I think we deserve a lot of credit for having managed to stay at the top for so long. Because as they say, it's easy to get there. What's difficult is staying there. And we stayed at the top for ten, fifteen years. It's very difficult to stay at that level and it's spectacular. And I think it remains a good memory for all those who followed us."
Lionel Messi is in action on Saturday (November 2) when Inter Miami face Atlanta United in the MLS Playoffs. The Superstar is hoping to lead the Miami-based outfit to their maiden playoff win.