Dutch and AC Milan legend Frank Rijkaard names the greatest soccer player of all time

Dutch soccer legend Frank Rijkaard, known for his elegance on the ball and tactical intelligence, left an indelible mark on the game both as a player and a coach. A key figure in AC Milan’s dominance during the late 1980s and a crucial part of the Netherlands’ Euro 1988 triumph, Rijkaard later guided Barcelona to Champions League glory as a manager. The former midfielder made headlines by naming the greatest player of all time—a statement that has ignited widespread debate among football fans and pundits.

In a 2012 press conference, as recorded by Marca, Rijkaard—then the head coach of Saudi Arabia and former Barcelona manager—was asked about Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“It wouldn’t be fair for me to make a direct comparison because I worked with Leo Messi, whom I consider the best player I have ever seen,” Rijkaard said. “I can’t compare him to Cristiano Ronaldo because I never worked with him. That doesn’t mean I don’t have great respect for Cristiano as a footballer.”

When asked which of the two he would choose for his team, Rijkaard dismissed the hypothetical scenario. “That’s something for PlayStation. In real football, that kind of choice doesn’t exist, so I won’t answer,” he added. However, he also defended Ronaldo, urging respect for the Portuguese star. “Players experience ups and downs throughout their careers. But based on his performances on the pitch, Cristiano should be happy—he’s always the one leading the way at Real Madrid.”

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as part of the FIFPro Men’s XI in 2010.

Frank Rijkaard’s legendary playing career

One of the most elegant and versatile midfielders of his generation, Rijkaard began his professional career at Ajax in 1979, quickly establishing himself as a vital part of the team. Capable of excelling both as a central defender and a defensive midfielder, he helped Ajax secure multiple Eredivisie titles and won the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in 1987.

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After brief spells with Sporting CP and Real Zaragoza, Rijkaard joined AC Milan in 1988, forming a legendary Dutch trio alongside Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten. Under managers Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello, Rijkaard played a pivotal role in Milan’s dominance, winning back-to-back European Cups (now UEFA Champions League) in 1989 and 1990. His intelligence, composure, and ability to control the tempo of a game made him one of the finest midfielders of his era, helping Milan secure multiple Serie A titles.

On the international stage, Rijkaard was just as impactful. Earning 73 caps for the Netherlands, he played a key role in their UEFA Euro 1988 victory, the nation’s only major international triumph. His defensive solidity and leadership were instrumental in that success.

Rijkaard’s coaching journey

Following his retirement in 1995, Rijkaard transitioned into coaching. He led the Netherlands national team to the semifinals of Euro 2000 before stepping down. After a short and unsuccessful stint with Sparta Rotterdam, he rebounded when FC Barcelona appointed him as head coach in 2003.

Rijkaard’s tenure at Barça marked the start of a golden era. He led the team to back-to-back La Liga titles (2004–05, 2005–06) and a historic UEFA Champions League triumph in 2006, ending the club’s 14-year drought in the competition. His influence was crucial in the development of a young Lionel Messi, while also rejuvenating stars like Ronaldinho, Xavi, and Deco. His emphasis on attacking, possession-based football laid the foundation for Barcelona’s future dominance under Pep Guardiola.

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After leaving Barcelona in 2008, Rijkaard had less successful spells with Galatasaray (2009–2010) and the Saudi Arabian national team (2011–2013) before stepping away from coaching. Despite his mixed results post-Barcelona, his impact on modern football remains significant. As both a player and a coach, Rijkaard is remembered for his tactical intelligence, leadership, and contributions to some of the greatest teams in football history.