Andriy Shevchenko, widely regarded as Ukraine’s greatest player, made a definitive statement about soccer’s greatest player of all time. The former AC Milan striker, who claimed the Champions League in 2003 and the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2004, shared his perspective on the ongoing GOAT debate.
During a 2022 Sky Sports interview, Shevchenko acknowledged the legendary status of Pelé and Diego Maradona but emphasized Lionel Messi’s extraordinary achievements throughout his career.
“For me, Messi is the best in history. While we’re in a different era than Pelé and Maradona, Messi encompasses everything. He’s Argentina’s symbol, a true legend, and one of the all-time greats. When we compare him with Maradona and Pelé, a player of his caliber deserves World Cup glory,” Shevchenko reflected before the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
The Ukrainian legend further praised Messi’s unique abilities: “Finding a player who combines dribbling and scoring like Messi is nearly impossible. He represents the perfect modern forward, impossible to confine to a single position. His presence across the field makes defenders look ordinary.”
A Legacy of Excellence: Shevchenko’s Career Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career spanning from 1993 to 2009, Shevchenko demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill:
• 48 goals in 111 international matches for Ukraine
• 721 total career goals across all clubs
• 354 goals and 126 assists in professional competitions
• 18 major trophies, including the 2003 Champions League
The Future: Messi’s Potential Return to Barcelona
LaLiga president Javier Tebas recently sparked discussion about Messi’s future, expressing his belief in a potential Barcelona homecoming. “I believe Messi desires to return to Barcelona. His connection with the club runs deep, and I can see him coming back, whether as a player or in another capacity. The Messi and Barcelona brands are intrinsically linked – they share a special bond,” Tebas stated at the Financial Times Business of Football Summit.
Shevchenko’s endorsement of Messi as soccer’s greatest player adds significant weight to the Argentine’s legacy. Coming from a Ballon d’Or winner who competed against some of the sport’s finest talents, this recognition further cements Messi’s status in football history.
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