Filipe Luis Declares Lionel Messi the Undisputed GOAT Over Cristiano Ronaldo

Former Brazil and Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis hailed Lionel Messi as the clear greatest of all time, saying no one is even close. He revealed watching every Barcelona game just to see Messi play. Luis praised Messi’s unmatched magic, eight Ballons d’Or, and World Cup triumph, declaring he should always win the award.

As the debate over football’s greatest player continues, former Brazil international Filipe Luis has firmly declared Lionel Messi as the undisputed number one, claiming Cristiano Ronaldo is “not even close.” Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, the ex-Atletico Madrid and Chelsea defender recalled how he used to stay in to watch every Barcelona game just to witness Messi’s brilliance.

Luis, who faced the Argentine many times, said Messi was the most challenging opponent of his career, a player capable of altering any match with a moment of genius. Luis praised Messi’s unmatched consistency and creativity, highlighting his record eight Ballon d’Or awards, World Cup triumph with Argentina, and countless club titles that make him the most decorated player in football history. Despite his admiration, Luis revealed he never asked for Messi’s shirt after matches, explaining that his focus was always on competing and trying to stop him.

While Messi now plays for Inter Miami under a contract running until 2028, Ronaldo continues his pursuit of 1,000 career goals with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. Both legends are expected to feature in the 2026 World Cup, offering fans one final glimpse of their long-standing rivalry that has defined an era of modern football.