Cristiano Ronaldo brutally told Lionel Messi wins GOAT debate 'by far' as Angel Di Maria insists Argentina team-mate 'doesn't need to do anything extra to be the best'

Di Maria forms part of the exclusive talent pool that can claim to have played alongside both of the all-time greats. He enjoyed considerable success with Ronaldo at Real Madrid, winning six major trophies, while Copa America and World Cup triumphs have been savoured as an international team-mate of Messi.

That standing makes Di Maria more qualified than most to pass judgement on which of the eternal rivals can be considered the greatest. Unsurprisingly, the veteran winger continues to side with his illustrious countryman.

Di Maria has told Juan Pablo Varsky on Clank: “I’ve always said the same thing - they are the two best in history. But it’s obvious that the best, by far, is Leo. It’s not just because of the eight Ballon d’Or awards he’s won, but because of everything else. Cristiano is about work, work and work. But Messi, he’s pure talent, a gift from God. He doesn’t need to do anything extra to be the best.”

The ex-Argentina international went on to say: “Cristiano had to train hard, spend hours in the gym, perfect his finishing, and always push himself. But Leo, it’s like he’s just playing with friends. That’s why the difference between them is so big. Leo is unmatched.”

Di Maria’s first victory alongside Messi came at the 2008 Olympic Games, as they won gold in Beijing, and the 36-year-old said of that experience: “It was such a unique feeling for me. It was incredible to share the Olympics with him, to talk with him, to just be around him. It was very special. I never imagined we’d spend 16 years together on the national team, but I enjoyed those Olympics to the fullest because you never know if you’ll get that kind of moment again.”

Messi and Di Maria both went on to become international centurions on the cap front, with the latter announcing his retirement from the Argentina fold on the back of a 2024 Copa America triumph. There has been talk of the pair being reunited at MLS side Inter Miami, although Di Maria remains on the books at Benfica for now.