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via Imago

via Imago

The debate over the greatest soccer player seems ‘ad infinitum’. While there are countless names, the conversation always circles back to the evergreen names of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, in a recent twist to the narrative, La Pulga’s name has been omitted, and instead, the legendary player from PSG has been hailed as the most complete player alongside CR7. 

The world of soccer is full of surprises, and this recent admission from a former Saudi League star is definitely going to stir some controversies among the soccer fraternity. 

Lionel Messi overlooked for the ‘most complete player’ crown

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Egyptian international Omar Al-Somah recently sat down for a podcast interview with renowned sports commentator Ayman Jada. During the lengthy interview, Al-Somah was asked to give his preference for the most complete player in soccer history. Interestingly, the Al Arabi player replied, “There are two complete players in football for me, Cristiano Ronaldo & Zlatan Ibrahimovic.” In a shocking turn of events, Al Somah overlooked Ronaldo’s arch-rival and instead took the name of the former Sweden international. 

Notably, Al Somah played in the Saudi Pro League for Ronaldo’s domestic opponent, Al Ahli, for over eight seasons. However, the 33-year-old center-forward then enjoyed a loan spell at Egyptian side Al Arabi until making a permanent move this summer. Certainly, his choice of idols justifies his stats, as Al Somah has scored 12 goals in 17 games for Al Arabu. He is also sharing the locker room with the former PSG trio, Marco Verratti, Rafinha, and youngster Abdou Diallo. Either way, Al Somah must have brought a smile to Ibra’s face, who himself acknowledged this claim, but with a twist. 

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READ MORE: Zlatan Ibrahimovic Pips Neymar & Kylian Mbappe as the Most Impactful Player in PSG History, Claims Frank Leboeuf

Zlatan Ibrahimovic keeps himself above Messi and Ronaldo in the GOAT debate

In an exclusive interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan, Ibrahimovic was inquired about the player’s perception of his standing among the all-time soccer greats. After clarifying if the evaluation was focused on collective or individual accolades, he said. “Just the skill, without winning anything, I think I’m the best. Without joking. I’m the most complete player that ever exits. Skills and all this.”

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He went on to acknowledge his inability to secure the Golden Ball or the UEFA Champions League, emphasizing that if these specific achievements held significant weight, he wouldn’t consider himself part of that esteemed list. Yet, he insisted on being fortunate to win 24 trophies, believing that individual recognition is tied to the success of the collective. 

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