Argentina Legend Riquelme Names Messi and One Other Global Icon As Football GOATs

• Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona have been hailed as the greatest footballers of all time
• Juan Roman Riquelme bestowed the GOAT title on his Argentina compatriots
• Riquelme has garnered immense admiration from Messi, who considers the ex-Villarreal star a role model

Juan Roman Riquelme, the renowned Argentine football legend, has bestowed his admiration upon Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, declaring them as the most exceptional footballers he has ever witnessed in his lifetime.

During his recent testimonial at La Bombonera, the former Villarreal playmaker, who coincidentally shares a birthday with his fellow countryman Leo Messi, expressed his sentiments.

Riquelme made the assertion following the match, where a Boca Juniors XI faced off against Argentina XI, with the inclusion of the newly-signed Inter Miami star.

Remarkably, just a day earlier, Messi had showcased his brilliance by scoring a remarkable freekick during Maxi Rodriguez's testimonial, per FN Futbol.

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Following the match on Sunday, Riquelme took a moment to express his gratitude to the 2022 World Cup champion for graciously accepting the invitation.

“Messi and Maradona are the two greatest players I have seen in my whole life. It is wonderful to have him here," the 45-year-old said, as quoted by Daily Post.

He continued: “I apologize to your family Leo that you had vacations and stayed a couple more days. I’m very grateful that you [Messi] always said yes to me, and for all the bosteros, I am lucky to have you here. It is unforgettable. I hope you had a great time. I love you very much.”

Messi speaks on GOAT debate

In a related publication, Sports Brief reported that Lionel Messi has revealed his position on the unending debate on who is the Greatest Footballer of All Time (GOAT) between himself and his age-old adversary, Cristiano Ronaldo.

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The extent of their domination over the last decade has made the "Greatest Of All Time" argument almost exclusively revolve around the rivalry between the mercurial Argentine playmaker and the Portuguese sensation.

After many expert opinions and fan discussions on the GOAT debate, the 35-year-old, who picked up his second Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award in Paris, finally weighed in on the debate.