"Without a doubt" - Pundit compares Real Madrid superstar with Maradona, Messi and Ronaldo after performance in UCL win

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper-turned pundit Santiago Canizares called Thibaut Courtois the Maradona, Messi and Ronaldo of goalkeeping. He said so following Los Blancos' 3-1 victory over VfB Stuttgart in their UEFA Champions League opener on Tuesday (September 17).

Sebastian Hoeness’ men fashioned the first clear chance of the evening as Jamie Leweling forced a smart save from Courtois inside four minutes. The Belgian's brilliance between the sticks kept the visitors at bay, making six saves to deservedly win the player of the match.

Cañizares gushed over the performance of the Real Madrid custodian, telling Movistar+ (via Madrid Universal);

“Courtois is the Maradona, the Messi, the Cristiano of goalkeeping. He is the best goalkeeper I have ever seen. Without a doubt.”

Courtois’ contribution to Real Madrid’s recent triumphs in the Champions League has been nothing short of remarkable. He was instrumental in their title win in the 2021-22 season, delivering a Man-of-the-Match performance in the final against Liverpool, making a record nine saves.

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William Gallas urges Cole Palmer to emulate Messi and Real Madrid legend Ronaldo to remain consistent

Ex-Chelsea player William Gallas has advised young star Cole Palmer to emulate icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo if he wants to maintain his high level of performance displayed last season.

Gallas emphasised the importance of consistency and highlighted how the two superstars became legends by delivering at the top level year after year. Gallas praised Palmer for his incredible season with Chelsea but made it clear that sustaining that form would make him a great player (via Mirror);

"Cole Palmer needs to stay at his level. Produce a season like that again. And again. And again. Season after season, that’s what the very best players - the legends - do. Messi and Ronaldo, these guys were the best for almost 15-20 years. It’s remarkable, and that is the standard if you want to be considered the best.

"What Palmer did last season with Chelsea was just incredible. I want to see him do it again. We’ve seen a lot of players have one season at the top level. The most difficult challenge for players is to stay in that level. To do it takes unbelievable commitment, huge sacrifices.

Palmer was arguably Chelsea’s most standout player last season, scoring 25 goals across competitions. He has been tipped by many to have a bright future. His technical ability, vision and composure on the ball have drawn comparisons to some of the finest talents in the game.