Although almost 17 years have passed, the debate over soccer’s greatest player continues to revolve around Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Icons like Gennaro Gattuso and Andres Iniesta have already offered their opinions, fueling a conversation that refuses to fade. Now, former Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli has entered the debate delivering his pick for the greatest player of all time.
During an interview with Diario Sport, Jorge Sampaoli took part in a segment where he had to name players who matched specific traits. He named Lionel Messi as the most intelligent player under his management and also as the greatest player in soccer history. His statement is surprising, not because of Messi’s performances under his management, but because their relationship lacked strength.
During his tenure as coach of the Argentina national team for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Jorge praised Lionel Messi’s leadership ability. “He is a competitive leader who wants to win it all every time…A competitive animal, which makes him very Argentine.” His comments came while Messi faced heavy criticism for not winning the coveted FIFA World Cup trophy. However, Argentina lost to France in the round of 16. As a result, Sampaoli lost his job shortly after the tournament.
Lionel Messi transformed his legacy with the Argentina national team
Although Lionel Messi faced strong criticism after the 2014 and 2018 World Cup failures, he never stopped chasing greatness. Many questioned his leadership and commitment to Argentina, especially after repeated heartbreaks on the international stage. However, everything began to change with the arrival of Lionel Scaloni as head coach.
With Scaloni’s guidance, Messi managed to transform his legacy in the Argentine national team by winning multiple trophies. First, they won the Copa America twice, ending a 28-year title drought. Then, they claimed the Finalissima against Italy. Finally, Messi led the team to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. As a result, Messi cemented his status as one of Argentina’s greatest players of all time standing on equal footing with Diego Armando Maradona.
Jorge Sampaoli and Lionel Messi of Argentina during an open to public training session at Bronnitsy Training Camp on June 11, 2018 in Bronnitsy, Russia.
How is Lionel Messi performing this 2025 season with Inter Miami?
Despite being 37 years old, Lionel Messi keeps showcasing his talent in MLS. In 14 games, he has managed to score 9 goals and 3 assists. However, there is an important change of his playtime. Unlike other seasons, Javier Mascherano has managed to convince Lionel Messi to control his efforts to extend his professional career. For this reason, he tends to take time off from time to time in order to give him rest.
see also
Report: Lionel Messi’s Argentina negotiating friendly matches to close out the year
With his good form, fans are asking for an extra effort for him to play in the next 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite this, the Argentine was absent from the first CONMEBOL qualifying double-header of 2025 due to physical discomfort. Still, he leads the qualifiers with 6 goals, which proves his value. Even so, his continuity with the national team depends on one thing only: his own decision.
SurveyIn your opinion, who deserves the title of greatest soccer player of all time?
In your opinion, who deserves the title of greatest soccer player of all time?
already voted 0 people
