Bradley Wright-Phillips has reignited football’s eternal debate. The former Manchester City striker backs Lionel Messi. He believes Messi is the greatest player of all time, over Cristiano Ronaldo.
Wright-Phillips shared his views on talkSPORT. He made his loyalty clear. Messi, now with Inter Miami, offers more than just goals. His all-around skill separates him from Al-Nassr’s Ronaldo.
Messi’s All-Round Game Reigns Supreme
When asked about Ronaldo’s claim to the top spot, Wright-Phillips was direct. He dismissed the idea without hesitation. “It’s not possible to be the best player in the world being just a scorer,” he stated.
He challenged anyone who rates Ronaldo above Messi. “Ronaldo? No, come on,” Wright-Phillips said. “Are you one of those people who thinks Ronaldo is better than Messi? For me.”
The ‘Eye Test’ for True Greatness
Wright-Phillips explained his criteria for greatness. It goes beyond mere statistics. True greats need flair, elegance, and control in matches. He emphasized the “eye test.”
“The best player in the world has to look like Messi,” he said. “He has to look like Zidane. There has to be something else there.”
An Enduring Rivalry and Lasting Impact
This debate between Messi and Ronaldo has defined global football. It has lasted for almost two decades. Both players are now nearing the end of their brilliant careers. Discussions about their legacies continue to grow louder.
Messi, 38, still shines brightly in Major League Soccer. Ronaldo, 40, remains a dominant force in Saudi Arabia. Together, they boast an incredible 13 Ballon d’Or titles. They have broken countless records. Their rivalry has shaped an unforgettable era in football history.
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