Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi? The Day Gianluigi Buffon Ended GOAT Debate

• The Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo debate has dominated the football space for years now
• Gianluigi Buffon delved into the never-ending argument, with the Italian choosing the bigger star
• Messi and Ronaldo have dominated football for years, sharing 12 Ballon d'Or titles between them

Gianluigi Buffon is among several high-ranking members of the football fraternity who have previously delved into the Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate.

The argument on who between the two football stars is the greatest of all-time has often left many football lovers divided.

The debate has lasted for over a decade, with Ronaldo and Messi dominating the football space during the period.

Buffon once gave his reasons for choosing one of the superstars as superior to the otherHowever, on his part, Buffon admitted that while Messi is more complete, Ronaldo is a killer inside the penalty area.

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As reported by Sportskeeda in 2018, the legendary goalkeeper stated:

"They are two completely different players. Messi is more complete, because he starts deeper, has more technical quality and a vision of the game that is worthy more of a trequartista than a finisher."

However, Buffon believes Ronaldo is a 'killer' in the penalty area.

"Compared to how he was before, Ronaldo preserves his energy more, so he no longer goes out to the flank for a nutmeg or trick-shot, but with one ball into the box he can create a goal."

Buffon and Ronaldo's relationship

Buffon played with Ronaldo at the Allianz Stadium from 2019 until 2021, winning one Serie A title, one Coppa Italia, and one Supercoppa with Juventus, Football Italia reports.

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The Portuguese captain scored 101 goals in 134 appearances, winning five trophies in Turin.

Buffon is one of the most iconic players in the history of the Bianconeri, having spent 19 years at the club, including one in Serie B.

Ancelotti rejects Messi GOAT claim

Sports Brief also reported on Real Madrid coach, Carlo Ancelotti refusing to acknowledge Messi as the best player of all-time.

The Argentine captain is said to have put the debate to rest after he led his country to World Cup glory on December 18 in Qatar.

However, the Los Blancos manager mentioned three other players he thinks are better than the 35-year-old superstar.

Footballer declares GOAT debate over

Argentina captain, Messi finally won the trophy that has eluded him for his entire football career - the FIFA World Cup.

La Albiceleste defeated France 4-2 on penalties after a completely ludicrous 120 minutes, as reported by Sports Brief.

Many believe Argentina claiming their first world title since the Diego Maradona years has cemented Messi as the best.