The GOAT debate has always been an intriguing one. Many recognize Cristiano Ronaldo as the best for his dominance in the UEFA Champions League. In contrast, others believe former Barcelona star Lionel Messi should be considered the greatest after his sensational World Cup triumph. It is a debate that might never settle. But what caused significant uproar was when  Rio Ferdinand named his pick of athletes.

The former England international was part of Manchester United’s iconic 2007-08 side, which won the Champions League. While he used to catch attention with his performances on the field, his comments off the pitch may have sparked another controversy this time.

Rio Ferdinand names his picks for GOAT athletes, excludes Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi

Ferdinand’s decision to ignore Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the GOAT debate has stunned soccer fans worldwide. The former defender, however, has always been an admirer of both superstars. Ferdinand said, “What’s amazing with these two(Messi and Ronaldo) is they have not just been the best player in the world for one or two years, which was the norm up to this point. They have been the best players in the world for 10 and 12 years, which is ridiculous.”

Nevertheless, snubbing both Messi and Ronaldo, the former defender named his picks. According to him, Michael Jordan, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and Roger Federer are the four most iconic athletes that have ever existed in the sporting realm.

Previously, Ferdinand had expressed his thoughts about his former Manchester United teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo. He said, “I would advise people to go back and watch clips of Cristiano Ronaldo in Man Utd shirt. There was no one like him, and there has been nothing like him since.” 

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After dominating European soccer for the past 15 years, both legends of the sport have decided that it is time for a new experience.

Messi and Ronaldo’s new chapters in the MLS and Saudi Pro League

Both Messi and Ronaldo have left Europe. Messi joined Inter Miami on a two-and-a-half-year deal after deciding to leave PSG. While on the other hand, Ronaldo joined Saudi giants Al-Nassr as a free agent, in a contract worth $500 million.

Despite the fact that both Messi and Ronaldo are in their late thirties, their performances on the field for their new clubs have been quite remarkable. Messi has 16 goal contributions in only 11 appearances for Inter Miami this season. He played a significant part in landing Miami’s first trophy, the Leagues Cup. While on the other hand, Ronaldo is in a league of his own. The Portuguese is the top scorer of the Saudi League with nine goals despite being 38.

But it is still unknown as to why Ferdinand excluded the two most successful soccer talents from the conversation.

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