Messi vs Ronaldo: When Peter Crouch Contributes to GOAT Debate With Controversial Opinion

Messi vs Ronaldo: When Peter Crouch Contributes to GOAT Debate With Controversial Opinion

Isaac Darko
updated at August 29, 2023 at 8:10 AM
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  • Peter Crouch holds strong viewpoints on the age-old Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate
  • Ronaldo is known for his unprecedented work rate, while Messi is seen as more naturally talented
  • The ongoing GOAT debate has spanned more than a decade at this point

Numerous footballers have shared their perspectives on the timeless Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo debate over the last 15 years.

However, Peter Crouch's stance on the GOAT debate could be considered one of the most contentious from a professional footballer.

As per the observations of the former Liverpool striker, individuals who favour the Portuguese star over the Argentine maestro might lack a profound understanding of the game of football.

Lionel Messi, Peter Crouch, Cristiano Ronaldo, GOAT debate
Peter Crouch's opinion on the debate is one of the more controversial opinions from a professional footballer. Photos by Visionhaus/ Stephen Nadler/Adam Nurkiewicz
Source: Getty Images

The ongoing Messi vs. Ronaldo GOAT debate has spanned over a decade and shows no signs of resolution.

Even as both footballers approach retirement in the coming years, fans are expected to persist in their discussions and debates.

Crouch on Messi vs Ronaldo

There will consistently exist individuals who contend that, from their perspective, Ronaldo is a more comprehensive and complete player than Messi.

And on his That Peter Crouch Podcast, Crouch stated that supporters favouring Ronaldo over Messi might not possess a deep understanding of the game.

He expressed:

"I don't know if I should say this or not," Crouch said, "I feel if you say Ronaldo, you don't know football very well."

Crouch's co-host Chris Stark, who supports Ronaldo, replied:

"That's an absolutely extraordinary thing to say. That is insulting to a lot of people!"

Crouch added:

"I think Ronaldo is incredible - incredible - but I do look a little bit down on you if you say Ronaldo."

Crouch's performance against Messi, Ronaldo

According to Sportskeeda, Crouch locked horns against Messi on two occasions during his playing career, achieving a balanced 50% win-lose record.

In his clashes against Ronaldo, tallying nine matches across club and country, he tasted seven defeats, secured one victory, and managed a draw.

Messi reveals his GOAT stance

Sports Brief also reported on Messi discussing the GOAT debate as fans continue to argue whether the Argentine star or his famed adversary, Ronaldo is superior.

While the discussion almost exclusively revolves around the 2022 World Cup winner and the Portuguese phenom, Messi had an interesting take on the situation.

Authors
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Isaac Darko
Isaac Darko is a La Liga, Ligue 1 and Bundesliga editor at Sports Brief with a Degree in Journalism and Communications from Ghana Institute of Journalism (2010)