Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano has reignited the age-old football debate by declaring Lionel Messi as the greatest player in history, placing him ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo.

The GOAT (Greatest of All Time) debate has been a never-ending discussion among football fans, with Messi and Ronaldo dominating world football for nearly two decades. While both players continue to perform at a high level in the twilight of their careers—Messi at Inter Miami in the MLS and Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia—Mascherano believes there is no competition.

Speaking at a recent press conference, as cited by ESPN, the former Liverpool and Barcelona midfielder firmly stated:

"You don’t need to ask. I think Messi is the greatest player in history. [There will] never be [a player] like him. It is impossible. 20 years at the top, scoring, playing."

Mascherano, who played alongside Messi for both Barcelona and Argentina, even joked about the Argentine's versatility:

“If you put him in defence, he will be the best defender. I can assure you. And I have seen that.”

GOAT Debate: Settled or Still Open?

Mascherano’s opinion aligns with many football legends, but Ronaldo’s supporters would argue otherwise. With Messi boasting eight Ballon d’Or titles and a FIFA World Cup to his name, and Ronaldo holding numerous goal-scoring records and five Ballon d’Or awards, the debate remains as fierce as ever.

While Messi is often praised for his natural talent, vision, and playmaking ability, Ronaldo is celebrated for his work ethic, physicality, and goal-scoring prowess. Both have shaped an era of football never seen before, making it difficult to pick one definitive GOAT.

Is It Time to Appreciate Both?

Perhaps, instead of endlessly debating, fans should simply appreciate the greatness of both players. Messi and Ronaldo have redefined football, broken countless records, and inspired millions. As their legendary careers near their conclusion, we might not see another rivalry like this in a lifetime.

What do you think? Has Mascherano settled the GOAT debate, or is this discussion far from over?