Lionel Messi named the GOAT as eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo slips to fourth! Argentine superstar takes top spot ahead of Pele, Diego Maradona and Co

Debate regarding who can be considered the greatest player of all-time has continued to rage over the course of several generations. In the present, Messi and Ronaldo - with 13 Ballons d’Or between them - dominate that discussion.

Argentine superstar Messi is the most decorated player in history, with 46 major titles to his name, while Portuguese sensation Ronaldo is considered to be the most prolific goalscorer of this, or any other generation.

Messi, who completed his medal collection when winning the World Cup in 2022, is considered by The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) to have cemented his status as the best player to have ever laced up a pair of boots.

Ronaldo, in contrast, sits off the podium - with Brazil icon Pele and Argentine hero Diego Maradona occupying second and third spots respectively. The top five is completed by Dutch legend Johan Cruyff.

Ex-Brazil international striker Ronaldo, French maestro Zinedine Zidane, German legend Franz Beckenbaeur, Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano and Samba superstar Ronaldinho make up the rest of the top 10.

Messi and Ronaldo are still going strong, with the latter having passed his 40th birthday. Inter Miami are hoping to keep talismanic No.10 Messi in MLS for at least another year, while CR7 is mulling over his options ahead of hitting free agency at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.