U.S. President Donald Trump revealed his soccer GOAT after the 2025 Club World Cup final on Sunday, which he attended alongside First Lady Melania and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. However, the American president didn’t name <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> or Cristiano Ronaldo, instead, he chose Brazilian legend Pele. 



Speaking to DAZN during the final, Trump said he had watched Pele during the Brazilian’s stint with the now-defunct New York Cosmos. “Many years ago, when I was young, they brought a player called Pele to play, and he played for a team called the Cosmos. And this place was packed, it was an earlier version of this stadium.” 



“I don’t want to date myself, but that was a long time ago, and I was a young guy, so I came to watch Pelé and he was fantastic. So probably I’ll go old-fashioned — that’s like saying Babe Ruth, and say Pele was so great,” he added.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pele</a> played for the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League (NASL), which was the top professional league in the United States and Canada at the time, from 1975 to 1977. He scored 37 goals in 64 appearances.



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In that sense, just like Lionel Messi today, Pele was one of the first soccer stars to play in the U.S., helping to change the landscape of the sport in the country. Other big names who played in the U.S. at the time include Franz Beckenbauer and Giorgio Chinaglia.


 


<h2>United States prepare for the upcoming World Cup</h2>



In addition to watching the match, the U.S. president also presented the trophy to Chelsea. The Blues were crowned champions after defeating PSG 3–0 in the final at MetLife Stadium, closing a successful (though eventful) first edition of the revamped Club World Cup.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250714_BUS_440537_donald-trump-chelsea-1024x576_739205dc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-440558" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14092728/donald-trump-chelsea.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Reece James #24 of Chelsea FC holds the FIFA Club World Cup trophy after their team’s victory as intereacts with U.S. President Donald Trump (David Ramos/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Having hosted this summer’s expanded <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/club-world-cup">Club World Cup,</a> the U.S. will now gear up to stage the FIFA World Cup next year. The global competition will return to North America for the first time in 32 years, with Mexico and Canada also serving as co-hosts.

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The debate over who holds the title of greatest soccer player in history continues to divide fans and experts alike. Legendary coach Carlo Ancelotti, who now leads Brazil’s national team, recently weighed in when asked to choose between four icons: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Diego Maradona, Pele, and Ronaldo Nazario.



The 66-year-old Italian, who has faced or coached a lot of great players over his storied career, offered a thoughtful and measured response during an interview with CONMEBOL.



“I can’t say definitively because Pele belongs to a different generation. What Pele achieved in his career—on top of the World Cups he won—was something truly special,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carlo-ancelotti">Ancelotti</a> explained.



“The others have been spectacular players. Starting with Ronaldo, whom I had the good fortune to coach, to Messi, whom I’ve seen, and all the others,” he continued. “But it’s difficult to choose. Based on what he achieved in his career, I believe Pele deserves first place”.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250627_BUS_428067_pele-1024x576_90584103.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-283680" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27142350/pele.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Brazilian soccer legend Pele smiles during a press conference after the Rio 2016 presentation (Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



While Ancelotti didn’t provide an official ranking, his comments made it clear that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pele</a>’s legacy—highlighted by three World Cup titles and his place among the game’s all-time top scorers—sets him apart in the GOAT conversation.


 

 

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<h2>Ancelotti reflects on coaching Ronaldo Nazario</h2>



Later in the interview, Ancelotti was shown photos of himself with former Brazilian stars he coached during his time at AC Milan, including Ronaldinho and Ronaldo Nazario.



While he praised Ronaldinho’s technical brilliance, Ancelotti made it clear who he believed was on another level. “Ronaldinho was spectacular because of his talent. In terms of pure talent, ‘Rony’ was one of the greatest. But the greatest is this one—Ronaldo. In every sense, now,” Ancelotti said. “We had a great time together, unfortunately not for very long because he got injured, but I have very fond memories of Ronaldo”.



This isn’t the first time Ancelotti has praised Ronaldo. Upon his arrival in Brazil, the former Real Madrid manager told Globo Esporte that Ronaldo was the most talented player he had ever coached. “Technically, he was spectacular and one of the funniest people in the world,” Ancelotti added.



He also mentioned several other Brazilian players who left an impression on him throughout his career. “The most professional would be Cafu. And the funniest… There are a lot. Eder Militao makes me laugh a lot, and Vinicius Junior as well,” he said.

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Over the years, the Club World Cup has undergone several modifications. Previously known as the Intercontinental Cup, it featured a face-off between the Copa Libertadores champion and the UEFA Champions League winner. Legendary players like Pele, Cristiano Ronaldo, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> have all left their mark on this tournament’s history. 



Over time, the competition became more inclusive, with more teams joining at the end of the century. Starting this edition, 32 teams from 20 different countries will compete, further solidifying its global appeal.



Now, Messi has the chance to achieve a historic milestone in this reimagined intercontinental tournament, organized by FIFA and hosted in the United States. The Argentine icon, shining for Inter Miami and already one of the competition’s most notable figures, stands poised to match a coveted record currently held by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> and Pele.



The Portuguese star and the Brazilian legend top the competition’s all-time scoring chart with seven goals apiece, albeit achieved under different formats. The revamped structure offers at least three matches per team, and up to seven for finalists, presenting a prime opportunity for Messi to add another accolade to his storied career.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250613_BUS_417299_cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-1024x576_f356d890.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-417303" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/12200845/cristiano-ronaldo-club-world-cup.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring during the FIFA Club World Cup 2017 Final between Gremio and Real Madrid. (Francois Nel/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Heading into the tournament, Messi has already scored five Club World Cup goals, leaving him just two shy of Ronaldo and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pele</a>’s mark. With three group-stage matches guaranteed, the former Barcelona and PSG forward has a realistic shot at reaching this milestone. While Inter Miami may not be considered a title contender, Messi could still cap off the tournament with a significant individual achievement.


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<h2>Inter Miami’s path in the group stage</h2>



Inter Miami are part of Group A, which includes Al Ahly, Palmeiras, and Porto. The Herons open their campaign against Al Ahly on Saturday, June 14, followed by a showdown with Porto on Thursday, June 19, and a critical match against Palmeiras on Monday, June 23. The group stage promises excitement and fierce competition as Messi leads Miami in pursuit of both team and personal glory.



<h2>Other contenders for the record</h2>



Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez also enters the competition with five goals in his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/club-world-cup">Club World Cup</a> history, tying him with Messi at the starting line. Following close behind with four goals each are Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid), Pedro (Flamengo), Salem Al-Dawsari (Al-Hilal), and Hussein El Shahat (Al Ahly).

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One of the most heated debates in modern football—and likely one that will last for generations—is the GOAT discussion between Cristiano Ronaldo and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>. The latest endorsement for Ronaldo comes from Omar Al Somah, the all-time leading scorer in the Saudi Pro League, who went as far as to claim that the Portuguese superstar is superior to Pelé, Diego Maradona, and Messi.



Just weeks ago, Al Somah faced Ronaldo on the pitch, scoring in Al Orubah’s 2-1 victory over Al Nassr. After the match, he shared a personal moment regarding his children’s admiration for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.



“After the game, my biggest concern was getting my kids a picture with Ronaldo,” Al Somah revealed. “Ever since he arrived in Saudi Arabia two years ago, they kept asking me, ‘Dad, when will you play against Ronaldo?’ I didn’t know how to answer because I wasn’t in the league at the time. As soon as I returned, they kept insisting. I finally got to take them to the game, and they were able to see him in person.”



At 35 years old, the Syrian striker recently returned to Saudi Arabia after a stint in Qatar. While he didn’t have a direct conversation with Ronaldo, he made his admiration clear.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250314_BUS_355187_GettyImages-2157092445-1-1024x576_cc9d7a5c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Wataru Endo of Japan controls the ball against Omar Al Somah of Syria during the FIFA World Cup Asian" class="wp-image-355192" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/13223230/GettyImages-2157092445-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Wataru Endo of Japan controls the ball against Omar Al Somah of Syria during the FIFA World Cup Asian</figcaption></figure>



“For me, Ronaldo is the greatest player in the world and in football history,” Al Somah stated. “What he has done in football… At 40 years old, he is still scoring goals that 20-year-olds can’t. No one should be offended by this—it’s just my opinion. But Ronaldo is the greatest ever, with all due respect to Pelé, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/diego-maradona">Maradona</a>, Messi, Zidane… He is a complete player. Everything you need in a footballer, you find in Cristiano.”


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<h2>Ronaldo nearing 1,000 career goals</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> continues his quest for 1,000 career goals, taking another step closer last weekend. The Portuguese star netted his 927th career goal in Al Nassr’s 3-0 AFC Champions League victory over Esteghlal.



The win also secured Al Nassr’s place in the quarterfinals of the competition—one of the club’s top priorities this season. While Ronaldo has already won nearly every major trophy in European football, an AFC Champions League title remains one of the few pieces of silverware missing from his storied career. Even at 40 years old, he remains one of the sport’s most dominant figures.



<h2>The career of Omar Al Somah</h2>



Omar Al Somah is one of the most prolific strikers in Asian soccer, renowned for his clinical finishing, physical presence, and ability to score from virtually anywhere on the field. The Syrian forward began his professional career with Al Futowa before making a name for himself at Kuwaiti powerhouse Al Qadsia, where his goal-scoring prowess quickly turned heads.



However, his move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli in 2014 propelled him to another level. Al Somah became the league’s most dominant scorer, leading Al Ahli to multiple domestic titles, including their first league championship in over three decades in 2016.


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On the international stage, he has been a crucial figure for the Syrian national <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a> team, playing a key role in their World Cup qualification campaigns. With his consistency and lethal right foot, Al Somah remains one of the most respected forwards in Middle Eastern soccer, leaving a lasting impact on both club and international competition.

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The debate over who holds the title of the greatest soccer player of all time continues to fuel heated discussions among fans and experts alike. Adding his voice to the conversation is Rafa Márquez, the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/barcelona">Barcelona</a> and Mexican national team defender widely regarded as one of Mexico’s all-time greats.



During his illustrious career, Márquez spent 11 years playing in Europe, with eight of them at Barcelona (2003-2010), a period during which he cemented his legacy. Known for his defensive prowess and leadership, Márquez’s perspective carries significant weight in the never-ending GOAT debate.



In a 2021 interview with the Spanish show El Chiringuito de Jugones, Márquez was asked to share his thoughts on the greatest player of all time. His response was clear and unequivocal, choosing a legend from an era he never witnessed firsthand.



“The greatest of all time is Pelé, even though I didn’t see him play,” Márquez stated. “But because of everything he won, the way he influenced soccer, and his impact on the game”.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250226_BUS_344259_pelejpg_242310155-1-1024x631_18e1930d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-190256" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/pelejpg_242310155-1-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/pelejpg_242310155-1-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/pelejpg_242310155-1-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/pelejpg_242310155-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Edson Arantes Do Nascimento Pele of Brazil celebrates the victory after winnings the 1970 World Cup. (Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The Brazilian icon, who passed away in December 2022 at the age of 82, remains the only player to win three FIFA World Cups, lifting the trophy in 1958, 1962, and 1970.


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<h2>Messi or Ronaldinho? Márquez chooses between two Barcelona icons</h2>



In addition to the GOAT question, Márquez was asked to pick between two of his most gifted former teammates at Barcelona: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Ronaldinho.



“Messi is out of this world, but Ronaldinho was magic. He was joy, soccer, and celebration. Just when you thought he’d do one thing, he’d surprise you with something else—it was magical,” Márquez said. “We all know he didn’t always perform to his full potential“.



<h2>Márquez on his relationship with Messi</h2>



While Márquez played alongside Messi during the historic 2008-09 season, when Barcelona won the sextuple, the Mexican star admitted their relationship was more professional than personal.



“We were never really close friends, to be honest. It was always a good, respectful relationship,” Márquez explained. “We were both quiet in the locker room, but once on the field, we transformed into competitors who were determined to win every game”.

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Since joining Al Nassr, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has continued to showcase his elite goalscoring ability, currently leading the Saudi Pro League in goals. His incredible longevity has earned praise from soccer experts worldwide. Following this, the debate over the greatest player in history resurfaced with different names such as Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi or Pele. Nevertheless, Cristiano Ronaldo did not hesitate to share his opinion, backing it up with a strong argument.



“I am the best soccer player of all time…I’m talking about numbers…I think I’m the most complete player ever. In my opinion, it’s me. I do everything well in soccer: with my head, free kicks, left foot. I’m fast, I’m strong,” stated Cristiano Ronaldo on Los Amigos de Edu. Cristiano Ronaldo claims to be the best soccer player in history, because the statistics are written and confirm it.



Despite his remarkable achievements, Cristiano acknowledges that personal preference plays a role in the debates about the greatest of all time, whether it is Messi, Pele, or Maradona. However, he backs himself, knowing the sacrifices he has made to reach the top claiming to be the most complete soccer player in history



“Who is the player in history who has scored the most goals with his head, left foot, penalties, free kicks? I was checking the other day and, without being left-footed, I am among the top 10 scorers with my left foot in history. And with my head, with my right foot, in penalties? In everything,” stated Cristiano Ronaldo.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250204_BUS_328068_cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-1024x576_5ce0966a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="cristiano ronaldo celebrates" class="wp-image-290906" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11144539/cristiano-ronaldo-2-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrates during the UEFA Euros 2024</figcaption></figure>



With 923 career goals and counting, Cristiano Ronaldo has showcased an unmatched ability to score in a variety of ways. His evolution from a dynamic left winger to a prolific center forward highlights his adaptability and instinct for finding the net.


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<h2>Does Lionel Messi believe he’s the greatest soccer player of all time?</h2>



Unlike Cristiano Ronaldo, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a> said in an interview he gave on 2023 that he prefers not to mention himself as the best player in history because he says that this is not something that interests him: “As I’ve always said, I don’t know if I’m the best in history or not and it’s not something that I ask myself or that interests me.” 



Besides, Messi affirmed that for him it is already a privilege to be mentioned among the best players in history: “The fact that it is insinuated or said that I can be among the best, as they say, for me is already a gift.” 



<h2>Diego Maradona disagreed with Cristiano Ronaldo’s bold statements</h2>



This is not the first time Cristiano Ronaldo has declared himself the greatest soccer player of all time. In a 2018 interview with France Football, the Portuguese star asserted that he was the best and most complete player in history. His comments sparked debate, with Argentine legend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/diego-maradona" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diego Maradona</a> openly disagreeing with his claim.



“Everyone is free to say whatever they want. Also nonsense. I don’t believe Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in history. Not at all. But I respect him for the career he is having, nothing more. From there to talk about the best in history he has a long way to go,” stated Diego Maradona on January of 2018 on Telesur. 



Diego Maradona had great respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, acknowledging his undeniable impact on football. However, he did not consider Ronaldo the greatest player in history. 



In that particular interview, Maradona refrained from naming anyone as the best. Yet, in previous statements reported by Argentine media outlet TyC Sports, he claimed there was a player far superior to both Pele and himself: “There was another player as great or greater than Pele and me: Jorge Gonzalez, a phenomenon. He is better because I come from planet earth and he comes from another galaxy”.



<h2>Brazilian legend Pele named best player in soccer history</h2>



Brazilian legend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pele</a> said in an interview granted to a Colombian channel Citytv in 2010 that he admired Alfredo Di Stefano very much: “I had a lot of respect for Alfredo Di Stefano when I started.” Nevertheless, Pele claimed to be the best player in history. 



“Pele won the first trophy with the Brazilian national team at 16, at 17 he played the first World Cup, Pele is the only player of all time to win three World Cups playing four, Pele is the only one to have scored more than 1,200 goals. Those are the facts. I will accept that Pele has been the best in the world,” stated Pele for Citytv on January 17, 2010.

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Cristiano Ronaldo boldly explains why he’s better than Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, and Pele

Mauro Camoranesi is synonymous with excellence, the World Cup, and having witnessed some of the best generations in the sport’s history. Now embarking on a coaching career after nearly two decades in the elite ranks, the Argentine-born Italian remains steadfast in his opinion on who stands as the greatest player in soccer history.



Having shared the field with some of the game’s finest, the Juventus icon remains convinced that despite the incredible achievements of today’s stars, like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Cristiano Ronaldo, there’s one player who would have been even more complete if he had played in the modern era.



“<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pelé</a> with today’s training would be the best in the world because individual quality transcends eras,” Camoranesi said after Argentina’s victory over France in the 2022 World Cup final, speaking on Maestros en la Jugada. “He faced challenges in his time, but a player from the ’60s would also be the best today with modern training and recovery methods”.



<h2>Camoranesi weighs in on the Messi vs. Maradona debate</h2>



In 2019, during an interview on Argentina’s Club 947 radio show, the Juventus legend addressed the ongoing debate between Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250131_BUS_325567_messi-maradona-1024x576_1eb1f88e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-280317" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/messi-maradona.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Diego Maradona conducts warm up exercises with forward Lionel Messi ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup match between Argentina and Nigeria. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



“Maradona or Messi? If I have to choose today, in 2019, I’d say Leo because he’s younger,” Camoranesi explained. “I played against Messi. Did I try to tackle him? I couldn’t get close. He’s a genius, that little guy. He left us all speechless”.


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“At the time, people used to call him a ‘phenomenon,’” Camoranesi continued. “He was different, but we never imagined he’d reach this level. His speed, the same quickness that amazed everyone, surprised us too. But what stood out the most was what he could do with the ball at his feet, the sheer pace he maintained while dribbling”.



<h2>What does Camoranesi think about Cristiano Ronaldo?</h2>



“I never managed to tackle Cristiano, but it was easier to play against him,” Camoranesi said during the same 2019 interview. “When we faced him with the national team, all he did was knock the ball forward and use his stepovers. His game was all about speed. He’d play down the flank, and you just had to keep up with him“.



For Camoranesi, Pelé remains the ultimate player, arguing that with today’s advanced training methods, the Brazilian legend would be unrivaled in the modern game.



<h2>Camoranesi’s career in numbers</h2>



Across a glittering career, Camoranesi played 602 matches, scoring 86 goals and providing 103 assists. His accolades include five major titles, highlighted by his World Cup triumph against France in Berlin.



The midfielder’s journey took him across clubs such as Aldosivi, Santos Laguna, Montevideo Wanderers, Banfield, Cruz Azul, Hellas Verona, Juventus, Stuttgart, Lanús, and Racing Club between 1994 and 2014.



Camoranesi’s most iconic stint came with Juventus, where he spent eight seasons. During his time in Turin, he played alongside Italian legends and endured the team’s relegation to Serie B after the infamous Calciopoli scandal. Camoranesi helped restore the Vecchia Signora to Serie A, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s greats.

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World Cup champion Mauro Camoranesi names the greatest soccer player of all time - Bolavip US

World Cup champion Mauro Camoranesi names the greatest soccer player of all time

Ronaldinho is undeniably one of the greatest players in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fc-barcelona" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FC Barcelona</a>‘s history, credited with transforming the club’s modern era. His tenure brought joy to the fans and ended a 14-year UEFA Champions League drought. Throughout his career, he played alongside legendary names like Cafu, Rivaldo, Kaka, Ronaldo Nazario, Andres Iniesta, Lionel Messi, and others. However, when asked to name the greatest player in history, his answer left many stunned.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ronaldinho" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ronaldinho</a> recently attended a Brooklyn Nets game and took part in a TikTok challenge where he was asked to stay silent until the name of the player he considers the greatest of all time was mentioned. As names like Zinedine Zidane, Neymar, Ronaldo, and Diego Maradona were listed, Ronaldinho remained quiet. However, when he heard the name <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pele</a>, he confidently affirmed that the Brazilian legend is the greatest.



However, the Brazilian had stated in 2022 in an interview for Eleven Sports TV that choosing Messi as the best of all time is difficult: “If Messi is the best of all? It’s difficult because there are so many players. I don’t like to compare. There’s Pele, Maradona… Each one was the best in his era…I can’t say Messi is the best in history, but I can say he is the best in his time.”



Ronaldinho does not aim to diminish the legacies of Maradona, Messi, or Cristiano Ronaldo, acknowledging the unique talent each brought to their era. However, his recent statements on TikTok highlight the importance of his roots, as the Brazilian legend declared that Pele is, in his view, the greatest player of all time.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250119_BUS_317316_ronaldinho-1-1024x559_92d97c33.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="ronaldinho-1" class="wp-image-317339" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/19164056/ronaldinho-1-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/19164056/ronaldinho-1-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/19164056/ronaldinho-1-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/19164056/ronaldinho-1-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/19164056/ronaldinho-1.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ronaldinho of Barcelona kisses his mother as he holds the Ballon D’Or award for European Footballer of the Year on the pitch before the Primera Liga match between Barcelona and Sevilla on December 11, 2005 at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Ronaldinho stands out as one of the most important players in FC Barcelona’s recent history</h2>



When Ronaldinho joined FC Barcelona in the 2003/04 season, the club was far from being the dominant force it is today. Barcelona had finished sixth in LaLiga the previous season and had not won the league in five years. However, the Brazilian’s arrival, coupled with Dutchman Frank Rijkaard taking over as head coach, sparked a transformation.


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The team finished second in Ronaldinho’s debut season before dominating LaLiga with back-to-back league titles in his second and third campaigns. His transformative impact on the club was undeniable, earning him the FIFA World Player of the Year award twice (2004 and 2005) and the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2005.



Ronaldinho’s presence revitalized the team, instilling a winning mentality and a refusal to settle for mediocrity. As a mentor, he played alongside a young Lionel Messi, offering guidance and support. Messi would later take up the mantle as the team’s leader, dominating world soccer for decades.

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FC Barcelona legend Ronaldinho reveals his pick for the greatest soccer player in history

For many, the debate over the greatest soccer player of all time seems like an easy question. But for others, it requires separating players by different eras, each dominated by distinct legends. However, according to German soccer icon Franz Beckenbauer, there was only one athlete who embodied every possible attribute of the sport.



Beckenbauer, who led the German national team to victory at the 1990 FIFA World Cup, has never shied away from singling out Lothar Matthaus as one of the greatest in the history of soccer. Reflecting on his time managing Matthaus, Beckenbauer praised the midfielder as “the perfect soccerplayer”.



Not only is Beckenbauer regarded as the greatest player in German soccer history, but also one of the sport’s most iconic figures globally. A revolutionary talent of his time, Beckenbauer’s qualities were virtually unmatched. Despite this, he didn’t hesitate to place Matthaus alongside him in the soccer elite.



“He has it all. He has perfect ball control, he’s athletic, and he’s intelligent on the field. He belongs in the top five greatest German players of all time,” Beckenbauer added, making it clear that for him, Matthaus is synonymous with perfection.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250118_BUS_316570_matthaus-1024x576_0412441f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-316574" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18174355/matthaus.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lothar Matthaus during a 1990 FIFA World Cup match between Germany and the Netherlands. (IMAGO / Sportfoto Rudel)</figcaption></figure>



But despite his glowing praise for Matthaus, Beckenbauer believes that perfection doesn’t necessarily equate to being the greatest of all time. When it comes to choosing the very best, the German legend has someone else in mind.


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<h2>Beckenbauer’s pick for the greatest player</h2>



For Beckenbauer, there’s only one player who stands above all others: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pele</a>. After the tragic news of the Brazilian icon’s passing in 2022, Beckenbauer shared heartfelt words in tribute. “Soccer lost its greatest today, and I lost a unique friend. Soccer will forever be yours. Rest in peace,” Beckenbauer said, reflecting on Pele’s legacy.



The admiration Beckenbauer has for Pele runs deep, so much so that he placed the Brazilian legend above Lionel Messi and all the other greats he has seen throughout his career. 



“Messi is the best of his generation, but although they are from different eras and are incomparable, the best of all is Pele,“ Beckenbauer continued. “I played with him in 1977 at the New York Cosmos, and I’ve never seen anyone like him“.

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German icon Franz Beckenbauer chose the greatest soccer player of all time - Bolavip US

German icon Franz Beckenbauer chose the greatest soccer player of all time

Marco van Basten is universally regarded as one of football’s greatest strikers, celebrated for his elegance, technical brilliance, and lethal goal-scoring prowess. The Dutch legend began his career with Ajax, where his clinical finishing and innate ability to find the back of the net earned him international acclaim.Recently, Van Basten shared his top three footballers of all time, sparking debate due to the notable exclusion of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Cristiano Ronaldo.



His picks, however, hold historical weight and personal significance. Speaking to Marca, Van Basten explained: “Pele, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/diego-maradona">[Diego] Maradona</a>, and [Johan] Cruyff are, for me, the three greatest players in history. As a kid, I wanted to be like Cruyff. He was my friend, and I miss him. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pele</a> and Maradona were also incredible. Messi is a great player, but Maradona had more personality in a team. Messi is not the one who puts himself at the front to go to war.”



The iconic striker also offered honorable mentions to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>, Michel Platini, and Zinedine Zidane, highlighting a blend of generational talent. Van Basten’s perspective combines personal nostalgia with a recognition of football’s evolving eras.



<h2>Marco van Basten’s journey to soccer immortality</h2>



Van Basten’s legendary career is a tale of unparalleled achievement and iconic moments that cemented his status as one of the all-time greats. Rising through the ranks at Ajax, Van Basten’s brilliance shone early, as he helped the club secure four Eredivisie titles and three KNVB Cups. His 1985-86 season was a testament to his unmatched talent, scoring 37 goals in 26 matches and earning the European Golden Shoe.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250118_BUS_316126_Marco-van-Basten-1-1024x576_3e6cc9fd.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-88892" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Marco-van-Basten-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Marco-van-Basten-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Marco-van-Basten-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Marco-van-Basten-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Marco-van-Basten-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Marco van Basten</figcaption></figure>



In 1987, he joined AC Milan, embarking on the most defining chapter of his career. Despite early injury setbacks, Van Basten was instrumental in Milan’s dominance under Arrigo Sacchi, capturing three Serie A titles and two European Cups. His brilliance earned him three Ballon d’Or awards (1988, 1989, 1992), an achievement that underscores his standing among football’s elite.


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Internationally, Van Basten’s crowning glory came at the 1988 UEFA European Championship. Leading the Netherlands alongside Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard, Van Basten produced one of the most memorable goals in football history during the final against the Soviet Union—a stunning volley from an impossible angle that sealed the Netherlands’ 2-0 victory and their first major trophy.



Though injuries cut his career short at 28, Van Basten’s legacy endures. His blend of grace, technical mastery, and clinical finishing forever redefined the role of a striker, leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a> game.

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Not Messi or Ronaldo: Dutch legend Van Basten names his three greatest players of all time - Bolavip US

This week, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/neymar-reportedly-receives-awful-news-from-al-hilal-as-coach-admits-theres-no-turning-back-for-him">Neymar Jr. received awful news from Al Hilal</a>, with coach Jorge Jesus confirming that the club had opted not to register the forward for the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League season. In light of this, Santos FC reportedly stepped up efforts to re-sign Neymar after 12 years, aided by an emotional gesture involving <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pele</a>.



According to Ge Globo, Santos have been in talks with individuals close to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a>, aiming to convince the 32-year-old to return to the club where he rose to prominence. The breakthrough in negotiations reportedly came through a video created using artificial intelligence, with a message narrated by Pele.



The heartfelt tribute using the voice of the legendary forward, who was an icon at Santos and for the Brazilian national team from the 1950s to the 1970s, is said to have deeply moved Neymar’s father.



Given the uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s future at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-hilal">Al Hilal</a>, the video and its emotional resonance may encourage Neymar to leave the Saudi club early and seek a return to Brazil. However, negotiations are far from straightforward.



Neymar’s massive salary at Al Hilal presents a major obstacle for Santos, as they are unable to match the financial terms offered by the Saudi club. Reports suggest that Santos’ strategy is to pursue a six-month loan deal with Al Hilal, allowing Neymar to spend the remainder of the 2024-25 season in Brazil before reassessing his future next summer.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250118_BUS_315980_pele-1024x576_4f040f88.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-283680" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Brazilian soccer legend Pele smiles during a press conference after the Rio 2016 presentation</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Santos fans love Neymar</h2>



Should Neymar return to Santos, he can expect a warm reception from fans who still hold him in high regard. During his four years at the club, Ney scored 136 goals in 225 appearances, winning six titles and etching his name into the hearts of the Santos faithful.



The club’s supporters recently showed their longing for his return, chanting “Volta pra casa, Neymar” (“Come back home, Neymar”) during a 2-1 win over Mirassol in the Campeonato Paulista on Thursday.



<h2>What are Neymar’s options?</h2>



While Santos appear to be making the strongest push for Neymar’s return, the forward has other options to consider. The most likely scenario remains Neymar staying at Al Hilal, particularly due to his high salary, although this would likely keep him sidelined for much of the 2024/25 season, as he is only registered to play in the AFC Champions Cup.



Another potential avenue is a move to Major League Soccer. For weeks, reports have linked Neymar to Inter Miami, where he could reunite with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. However, the deal would face significant hurdles due to MLS’s salary cap restrictions.


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Other MLS clubs, such as the Chicago Fire, have also reportedly shown interest, according to journalist Jeff Carlisle. While nothing is confirmed, it’s clear that Neymar’s next move is approaching, and he will soon need to make a decision about his future.

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In the world of soccer, only a select few players achieve unanimous recognition for their greatness. Among them is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pelé</a> who passed in 2022. However, when asked to choose the best player of all time, even Pelé shifted his perspective over the years.



It all began with a visit to Madrid on September 17, 2009. Pelé offered his initial take on what defined the greatest player, emphasizing a player’s all-around ability on the field.



“People debate whether Pelé or Maradona [is the best]. (Alfredo) Di Stéfano, for me, was the best; he was much more complete. Maradona is a great player, but he didn’t kick well with his right foot and didn’t score headers. The only important header he scored was with his hand (vs. England in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals),” the Brazilian legend said at the time.



However, Pelé’s opinion evolved within a few months, shifting his criteria for greatness. Beyond versatility, he began prioritizing titles and goals in his assessment of the sport’s best.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241201_BUS_283678_pele-1-1024x576_d5595f50.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-283688" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/pele-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Diego Maradona and Pelé, often regarded as the greatest soccer players of all time. (IMAGO / Photo News)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Pelé’s pick for the greatest player of all time</h2>



“I had a lot of respect for Alfredo Di Stéfano when I started. Pelé won his first trophy with the Brazilian national team at 16, played his first World Cup at 17, and is the only player in history to win three World Cups while playing in four. Pelé is the only player to have scored more than 1,200 goals. These are the facts. I’ll accept that Pelé has been the best in the world,” Pelé declared during an interview with Citytv in Colombia on January 17, 2010.


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<h2>The debate over Pelé’s goal total</h2>



Despite Pelé’s assertion that he scored over 1,200 goals, FIFA officially recognizes 757 goals in 820 matches. The discrepancy lies in whether goals scored in friendly matches should count toward his total. 



“Pelé scored 1,091 goals for Santos and 1,282 in his career. Of these, 448 were scored in what would be considered friendlies and international friendly tournaments. More than half of these were more important for Santos, their rivals, and the footballing world than many of the goals he scored in ‘official matches,’” Odir Cunha, historian for Santos FC, explained to ESPN in December 2023.



Pelé’s legacy remains unparalleled, and his contributions to soccer continue to ignite debates about the greatest player in history.

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Javier Zanetti, who graced the soccer pitch with unparalleled consistency until the age of 40, left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for his time as a stalwart defender for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter">Inter Milan</a>, Zanetti transitioned seamlessly into his role as the club’s vice president after retiring, becoming a respected voice in the soccer world.



Now 51, the Argentine legend continues to offer insights into the sport from a leadership perspective. Recently, in a Q&amp;A session with Ezzequiel, Zanetti weighed in on one of soccer’s most debated topics: the greatest players of all time.



While reflecting on top players in various positions, Zanetti didn’t hesitate when it came time to answer the big question. Who are the three best players in the history of soccer? His answer was simple and definitive:



“Pelé, Maradona, Messi,” Zanetti declared, showing no hesitation as he tackled a debate that fuels passionate arguments among fans worldwide.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241123_BUS_278804_javier-zanetti-1-1024x576_3a4db67d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-278810" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/javier-zanetti-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi of Barcelona is tackled by Javier Zanetti and Esteban Cambiasso of Inter Milan during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Second Leg match between Barcelona and Inter Milan at Camp Nou. (Michael Regan/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Zanetti’s thoughts on Messi vs. Maradona debate</h2>



Zanetti has often spoken about the comparisons between <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Diego Maradona, holding both Argentine legends in the highest regard. Even before Messi’s World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022, Zanetti made it clear where he stood.


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“Messi is an incredible player. I think he’s on par with Diego,” Zanetti said before Messi’s historic triumph. “I believe many people want Messi to win because of what he represents to the world and the way he plays the game. Lio deserves it, and the team has worked incredibly hard to reach that moment.”



More recently, Zanetti continued his praise for Messi, offering a glowing description of the Inter Miami star. “Messi is Messi because he’s a phenomenon. For me, he’s the essence of soccer,” Zanetti explained. 



“He always plays with joy on the pitch, and as Marcelo Bielsa once said, Messi keeps that amateur spirit alive within him,” he continued. “He inspires, he shows it, and he does the hardest thing of all—staying at the top for so many years. Messi continues to do that and represents us Argentines brilliantly around the world.”


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<h2>The numbers behind Zanetti’s legacy</h2>



Zanetti joined Inter Milan in 1995 and spent 14 seasons as a cornerstone of the club’s success until retiring in 2014. Over his illustrious career, he played 858 matches for the Nerazzurri, contributing 21 goals and securing 16 major titles.



Among his honors, Zanetti helped Inter to a historic UEFA Champions League title in 2010 and six Serie A championships, solidifying his legacy as one of the all-time greats.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jurgen-klopp">Jurgen Klopp</a>, one of the most influential coaches in European and global soccer over the past two decades, has led just three clubs during his career: Mainz, Borussia Dortmund, and Liverpool. Despite his relatively small list of clubs, Klopp has built a legacy defined by trophies and a unique style of play that has earned him a place among the world’s elite managers.



Now 57, after nine seasons at the helm of the Reds, Klopp has decided to take a break from coaching, rejecting multiple offers in recent months. For now, he’s confirmed he wants to relax and enjoy life away from the sidelines.



Throughout his 23-year coaching career, the Stuttgart-born tactician has worked with a host of world-class players, including Marco Reus, Robert Lewandowski, Mats Hummels, Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, to name a few. 



However, when it came time to pick the greatest player in soccer history, Klopp didn’t hesitate. His choice wasn’t a contemporary player but a legend of the game: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pele">Pele</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241004_BUS_245306_imago1040177200h-750x1024_d9012d22.webp&amp;width=651&amp;height=888" alt="" class="wp-image-245313" width="651" height="888" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/imago1040177200h-750x1024.jpg 750w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/imago1040177200h-220x300.jpg 220w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/imago1040177200h-768x1048.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/imago1040177200h-1125x1536.jpg 1125w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/imago1040177200h-1500x2048.jpg 1500w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/imago1040177200h-scaled.jpg 1875w" sizes="(max-width: 651px) 100vw, 651px"></figure><figcaption>Pele celebrates goal of Brazil agains Italy in the 1970 World Cup final. IMAGO / BSR Agency</figcaption></figure>



In a 2018 interview with Liverpool FCTV, Klopp revealed his admiration for “O Rei,” explaining that it was his father who instilled in him the belief that Pele was the best.


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“My father always told me that no matter what people say in the future, Pelé is the greatest (of all time). I met him when I was a commentator for the 2006 World Cup. I’m not the kind of person who gets nervous, but in that moment, I was sweating like crazy. The best in history? For me, it’s Pelé,” Klopp said.



<h2>Klopp’s recognition of Lionel Messi</h2>



While Klopp praised Pelé and named him as the best, he also had high praise for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, whom he called “the best player I’ve ever seen.” Due to his age, Klopp never got the chance to watch Pelé in his prime, but he’s faced Messi on several occasions and witnessed his brilliance firsthand.



After Messi won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina at the age of 35, Klopp was effusive in his admiration: “The way he plays soccer at his age… His performance could give us an idea of how long players can continue to compete at the highest level. It also serves as a reminder that we shouldn’t be too quick to close the book on a player’s career. It was a pleasure to watch him at the World Cup,” Klopp said.

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It’s no secret that Pope Francis is an avid soccer fan. The pontiff has always expressed his passion for the sport, keeping a close eye on Argentina’s national team and his favorite club, San Lorenzo de Almagro, which plays in Argentina’s top division.



At 87 years old, Pope Francis recently revealed who he believes are the three best players in the history of the sport. Unsurprisingly, he named two Argentine legends, Diego Armando Maradona and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, while also honoring another iconic figure.



The third player rounding out the Pope’s list is none other than Pelé, the Brazilian legend who won three World Cups. Francis shared his admiration for the late Brazilian star, acknowledging the impact Pelé had on soccer worldwide.



“Maradona, as a player, was great, but as a man, he failed. Poor thing, he was surrounded by people who adored him but didn’t help him,” Pope Francis remarked, reflecting on the Argentine who led his country to World Cup glory in 1986.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240911_BUS_233095_imago0001729410h-1024x683_0f96cc20.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=683" alt="" class="wp-image-233098" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/imago0001729410h-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/imago0001729410h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/imago0001729410h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/imago0001729410h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/imago0001729410h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Diego Armando Maradona lifts the Wolrd Cup in 1986. CDU / BR Deutschland/ IMAGO</figcaption></figure>



Speaking on Lionel Messi, he added, “Messi is incredibly proper. He’s a gentleman.” And when it came to Pelé, the Pope was even more expressive: “I add a third: Pelé. These are the three I have seen play. To me, the greatest gentleman of them all is Pelé.”



“Pelé was a man with heart. I spoke with him once on a plane in Buenos Aires, and I realized how humane he was. All three are remarkable, each with their own unique qualities,” Pope Francis concluded.



<h2>David Beckham reveals his four greatest players</h2>



During a visit to Mexico City in 2023, David Beckham was asked to name his four greatest soccer players of all time. His list honored legends from both past and present, including two players who have passed away and two still competing at the highest level.


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“I’m not sure if Messi is the greatest of all time,” Beckham noted. “When you look back at the greats over the years—from Pelé to Maradona, and of course, Cristiano and Messi—it’s tough to pick just one. But what Leo has achieved is remarkable.”



Reflecting on Messi’s World Cup triumph, Beckham added, “To end his career with a World Cup win… well, his career isn’t over yet; he still has a few more years. He’s definitely one of the greatest players of all time.”

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