‘Impossible’ Lionel Messi trait that makes him the GOAT! Inter Miami’s Champions Cup rival Sergio Canales explains why Argentine icon is ‘the best’

The Argentine icon is assured of his place among the all-time greats after picking up eight Ballons d’Or and the World Cup as part of a record-breaking trophy collection. He is still going strong in MLS at 36 years of age, with only eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo able to boast a similar level of consistency and longevity.

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Former Real Madrid midfielder Canales, who is now on the books of Mexican side Monterrey, has told FIFA’s official website of what makes Messi special: “What sets him apart from all other players – with the exception of Cristiano Ronaldo – is that it’s virtually impossible to stay at that level for 15 or 20 years. They’re the only two players who have managed to maintain that level for that long, winning title after title and contending to be the best every year with goals, assists and by leading their teams to silverware. The composure and personality exuded by players like them goes beyond mere technical and physical attributes. You just know they're going to be there when you need them, and that gives their team-mates peace of mind. That's why I consider Messi to be the best of all time. To be able to maintain that level and desire for 15 years is impossible!”

Canales joined Monterrey in the same summer as Messi made his way to the United States, with more marquee signings expected to head for the Americas in future windows. Spain international Canales added: “For me, Leo Messi is without doubt the best player in history. For a player of his stature, the Golden Ball winner, to go to MLS and play for Inter Miami is hugely significant, both for the league and those who play with him. It's a very important development. In Mexico, clubs are very keen to grow, but that's not just shown by my arrival. Then you have the Mundial de Clubes next year, which will allow teams to face top quality opponents – the best in the world. Both [MLS and Liga MX] are growing significantly and very quickly.”

Monterrey claimed a 2-1 victory over Inter Miami in the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final, with the Herons hoping that Messi will be back at their disposal after injury for the return date of that encounter on April 10.