Cristiano Ronaldo told he ‘played student & teacher’ in GOAT claim as ex-Real Madrid & England boss Fabio Capello ranks Lionel Messi above CR7 in ‘phenomena’ category

Portuguese superstar Ronaldo recently claimed to be the most “complete” player of all time, with the qualities that he possesses allowing a standing to be taken up above the likes of Messi, Diego Maradona and Pele.

Said comments have generated lively debate, with prominent figures from across the footballing world offering their take on who deserves the ‘greatest of all-time’ title. Capello, who has managed Real Madrid and England in the past, has added his voice to that discussion.

Asked about Ronaldo’s bold statement, the Italian tactician told Flash Score: “When someone claims that title, they mark it themselves, they've done their homework, they haven't listened to others, I think they've exaggerated a bit. In short, they've played the student and the teacher, haven't they?

“A great player, built with desire, with will. But when I talk about phenomena, I say Messi, I say Pele, I say Maradona and I put Ronaldo the 'Gordo', Ronaldo the 'Phenomenon', right next to them. He's a hair below them.”

Messi and Ronaldo are both still going strong in 2025. They are now on the books of MLS side Inter Miami and Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr respectively. Capello added on big career calls that took two icons away from Europe, with Messi chasing the American dream: “It was a lifestyle choice for him, there were no economic problems.

“It seems to me, at least from what you read in the newspapers about certain matches, that he has succeeded in raising his profile. Ronaldo raised the profile of Saudi Arabia and Messi raised the profile of the United States.”

Ronaldo is pursuing 1,000 career goals at 40 years of age, and is expected to grace the 2026 World Cup with Portugal, while Messi has an extension option in his Inter Miami contract that could take him through the same tournament.