Messi revealed the reason why Ronaldo is considered the 'GOAT'

Lionel Messi revealed the sole reason why Cristiano Ronaldo is regarded as the “GOAT” (greatest of all time), as a former Manchester United teammate admitted that CR7 “didn’t even know how to head the ball” when he first arrived at Old Trafford.

Lionel Messi was “revealed” the only reason why his great rival Cristiano Ronaldo is seen as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time), according to Danny Simpson in an exclusive interview with GOAL. The champion Premier League player once alongside CR7 at Manchester United believes Ronaldo possesses unique qualities that set him apart from every other player in history, including Messi.

For over 20 years, the two greatest icons of modern football have competed relentlessly to prove who is truly the “greatest.” For many, Messi is the most decorated player in history and deserves the top spot. However, many also choose Ronaldo, as the Portuguese superstar reached the peak through extraordinary effort rather than relying solely on natural talent.

A product of the Old Trafford academy, Simpson belongs to the second group. He witnessed firsthand how Sir Alex Ferguson shaped Ronaldo from a skinny winger who loved showboating into one of the greatest goal scorers the football world has ever seen. That journey was far from easy.

Yet, Ronaldo has always been driven by an intense desire to win since he emerged as a quick-footed teenager. At 40, he still maintains top form playing for Al-Nassr and the Portuguese national team and has even extended his contract in the Saudi Pro League to play beyond 42 years old.

Simpson continues to admire what his former teammate has achieved — an absolute dedication to his craft that has immortalized Ronaldo. Speaking to GOAL via Fruity Slots, Simpson said:

“The most amazing thing about Ronaldo is his adaptability. He adapted when he was just 18, 19; adapted at Real Madrid, Juventus, and now in Saudi Arabia and the Portuguese team. That’s why, for me, he is the best player in the world.”

He added: “No disrespect to Messi, who is an extraordinary talent, but Messi never had to change many aspects of his game. When Ronaldo first arrived at Manchester United, he didn’t even know how to head the ball! Now he is probably one of the best headers in the world, at the level of a true number 9. It’s truly a great pleasure to have been alongside him for a few years and witness such an incredible evolution.”

Ronaldo has also openly declared himself the GOAT, telling La Se-xta why he ranks above Messi, Maradona, and Pele:

“I think I am the most complete player that ever existed. That’s my opinion. Maybe it’s a matter of preference, but I believe it’s true. I can do everything in football like heading well, free kicks, shooting with both feet, speed, strength, and jumping high.

Everyone has their own taste, whether they prefer Messi, Pele, or Maradona. I respect that. But to say Cristiano is not complete is a lie. I am the most complete. I don’t see anyone better than me, and I say this with all my heart.”

Simpson believes Ronaldo can extend his legendary career for many more years, with many great milestones still ahead: “Never underestimate him. As long as Ronaldo keeps scoring and stays injury-free, I wouldn’t be surprised if he continues conquering. I know he wants to reach 1,000 goals and play alongside his son.

Playing with your child must be the most special feeling after winning every trophy. He always sets the goal of 1,000 goals, playing with his son, and when he achieves that, maybe then he’ll feel truly complete. I don’t know what comes next. He is an extraordinary person, a great player. What Ronaldo has done for football is unbelievable.”

While waiting for Cristiano Jr (his 15-year-old son) to mature at the Al-Nassr academy, Ronaldo is still working hard to win more titles in the 2025-26 season. He is also expected to participate in the 2026 World Cup, aiming to match Messi by claiming global glory.

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