AFCON 2025
Paris Saint-Germain forward and Ballon d’Or contender Ousmane Dembélé has shared his perspective on the enduring debate about the greatest footballer of all time.
The discussion, a focal point for fans for over a decade, compares two icons with remarkable records. Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has been pivotal for Argentina, clinching two Copa América titles and a World Cup.
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, is the UEFA Champions League’s all-time leading scorer with 140 goals and the first player to exceed 900 official career goals.
Addressing the debate, Dembélé said, “I grew up watching FC Barcelona, so naturally [it’s] Lionel Messi. For me, he’s the greatest.
“He’s a player who inspires me, he’s unique! I’m very happy and proud to have played with him.”
Dembélé played alongside Messi at Barcelona from 2017 to 2021, assuming a more significant role after Messi’s exit in the summer of 2021.
Since then, Dembélé has excelled, transferring to PSG, refining his game, and contributing significantly to the French club’s UEFA Champions League triumph.
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