Paris Saint-Germain and France international, Ousmane Dembele, has joined the never-ending football debate by picking Lionel Messi as his greatest player of all time (GOAT), ahead of Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

In a recent interview with France Football, Dembele was asked to choose between the two football legends who have dominated the sport for over a decade. His response came with clarity and admiration:

“I grew up watching Barcelona, so naturally for me, Lionel Messi is the greatest. He is a player who inspires me. He is unique, and I am very happy to have played with him.”

👑 Messi or Ronaldo? The Debate Rages On

Though Dembele has faced Ronaldo three times on the pitch, he shared the dressing room with Messi during his time at Barcelona. That experience clearly left a lasting impact on the winger, who now lines up for PSG.

His statement may not sit well with the massive Ronaldo fanbase, but it adds to the long list of footballers who have publicly backed the Argentine as their GOAT. For many, Messi’s ability to create magic effortlessly, combined with his vision, balance, and longevity, makes him the complete footballer.

🗣️ Opinion: It’s Okay to Pick a Side — Respectfully

Football is a game of emotions, loyalty, and opinions. While Messi's artistry and Ronaldo’s athleticism offer two very different styles of greatness, fans should learn to appreciate both legacies rather than constantly pit them against each other.

Dembele’s choice is a personal one, shaped by his background, career path, and on-field experiences. He’s played beside Messi, seen him up close, and been inspired by him — his view is more than just a fan’s admiration; it’s a first-hand testament.

🎯 The Bigger Picture

Whether it’s Messi or Ronaldo, what truly matters is that football fans around the world got to witness two icons at the same time—and players like Dembele are a bridge between those legends and the next generation of superstars.

So…
Messi or Ronaldo?
You’re allowed to have a favorite. Just don’t forget: we’re all lucky to have lived in their era.

#GOATTalk #DembeleSaysMessi #RespectBothLegends #FootballLegends #BarçaDNA #MessiEra #CristianoRonaldo #FootballLove