Steven Gerrard (foto: Getty Images)
Steven Gerrard names Lionel Messi the greatest player ever but also hails Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence in Saudi Arabia, calling him "the GOAT."
Over 17 remarkable seasons, Steven Gerrard carved his name into football history, not just at Liverpool but on the global stage. With over 700 appearances, 186 goals for the Reds, and a Champions League triumph in 2005, Gerrard's legacy is firmly cemented. After leaving Anfield, he closed his playing career at LA Galaxy, adding invaluable experiences to his already storied journey. Today, as the head coach of Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, Gerrard remains a respected voice in the football world.
Recently, Gerrard weighed in on one of football’s most divisive debates: who is the greatest player of all time? Speaking on Gary Neville’s podcast The Overlap, the former England captain was unequivocal:
"For me, Lionel Messi. But I’d never say anything disrespectful about Cristiano Ronaldo because he’s phenomenal as well," Gerrard stated.
He went a step further, forming a five-a-side team featuring players he faced during his career. Alongside Gianluigi Buffon, Paolo Maldini, Zinedine Zidane, and Ronaldinho, Gerrard reserved special praise for Messi.
"I’m more interested in what you’ll do for the team. What can we achieve together? Ronaldo will win you things, but I’m more of a team player than an individualist, so I’ll always choose Messi," he added, emphasizing the Argentine’s team-oriented brilliance.
However, Gerrard’s views appeared to take a surprising turn in a separate interview with the Saudi Pro League, where he currently coaches. While acknowledging Messi’s greatness, he referred to Cristiano Ronaldo as "the GOAT," praising the Portuguese star’s influence since joining the league.
"The arrival of 'THE GOAT,' as we call Cristiano, was a massive signing. He still had so much football to offer. For six months, I followed his results, watched some games, and highlights," Gerrard remarked, celebrating Ronaldo’s contributions in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the apparent contradiction, Gerrard’s admiration for both players highlights their unique contributions to football’s history.