Sir Alex Ferguson says that Lionel Messi is superior to his compatriot Deigo Maradona.
Hugh McIlvanney, who was one of the greatest sports journalists in England passed away a week ago. In an interview with the Times, he revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson and himself had a heated argument about Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona.
The question was not as simplistic as both had to answer the greatest player of all time hailing from Argentina. Sir Alex decided to stick with Lionel Messi and Hugh McIlvanney was in Diego Maradona’s side.
Jonathan Northcraft writes “Something similar happened at a Sunday Times lunch, when with rising intensity Hugh and Graeme Souness debated whether Lionel Messi (Souness’s call) is greater than Diego Maradona (Hugh’s),”
“An exasperated Souness had to finally beseech: ‘Look, I played against Maradona five times and I’m telling you – Messi.’ Hugh growled back: ‘I don’t care who you played against. It’s Diego.'”
It is understood that Liverpool legend Graeme Souness was also part of the conversation. The Scottish International was on the back of Lionel Messi over Diego Maradona, and Sir Alex Ferguson agreed with his compatriot.
“Told of this, ‘I would side with Souness on that one. Maradona’s career at the very top was only a few years.’
“But I can imagine Hugh’s response. ‘You don’t ******* know what you’re talking about!’ While blowing a big puff of smoke in your face, lighting another stogie and speaking with that wonderful, rasping voice.”
There is no doubt that Diego Maradona has won the World Cup, and Lionel Messi did not. But, that is not how people measure your success. It’s all part of being keeping your top game consistently during your playing career.
On the other hand, there is no doubt that the former Argentina manager Diego Maradona has been one of the best players to have played the game. It has been a healthy debate over the course of a few years, but it will not be settled as people have their own opinions.
Lionel Messi’s rivalry with the former Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been a treat to watch over the last decade or so. With a share of five Ballon d’Or, both of them have been equally successful in every measure.
Not only Sir Alex Ferguson, but many football figures have chosen Lionel Messi as the greatest player to have played the game of football.
Which side are you in? Lionel Messi or Diego Maradona?
