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Former Colombia midfielder Carlos Valderrama reckons late Argentina legend Diego Maradona is the GOAT and not Lionel Messi. The 37-year-old Messi won his fourth title with the Albiceleste last month at the 2024 Copa America.
Widely regarded as one of the best players to grace the beautiful game, Messi is still going strong for club and country, scoring over 800 times. Although injuries have plagued him this year, La Pulga continues to be decisive when he's fit.
Although his contribution was limited - one goal and an assist in five games - Messi hoisted his fourth straight title with the Albiceleste, adding to successes at the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
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However, Valderrama said (as per Bola VIP) that Maradona is the GOAT ahead of Messi due to his superior leadership ability and didn't have the 'luxury' of playing in star-studded teams:
“For me, it’s Diego (because of his) leadership. The leadership is different. And let’s not forget, Maradona played with different teams. Messi’s Barcelona was full of stars, wasn’t it? On the other hand, Diego didn’t have that luxury.”
El Pibe added:
"They were different kinds of players. When he went to Napoli, did you even know about Napoli before? I’m talking about the difference… Maradona went to Napoli, and they won. He did this and that. Everyone was focused on Napoli, but it was all because of Diego.”
Messi came off midway through the second half of the 1-0 extra-time final win over Colombia before Lautaro Martinez's late extra-time strike made the Albiceleste the first 16-time Copa champions.
How has Lionel Messi fared for Inter Miami this season?
Lionel Messi has endured an injury-plagued first full season with Inter Miami in 2024 since his arrival on a free transfer last summer after nearly two decades in European football.
Nevertheless, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has contributed 14 goals and 11 assists in 15 games across competitions. That includes 12 goals and nine assists in 12 outings in MLS, where the Herons are five points clear atop the Eastern Conference after 25 games.
Messi has also struck two goals and registered as many assists in three games in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where Tata Martino's side lost 5-2 on aggregate to Monterrey in the quarter-finals.
