Compare Messi to Maradona, Abedi Pele, not Cristiano Ronaldo – Asamoah Gyan

Legendary Ghanaian player Asamoah Gyan believes Argentine football great Lionel Messi is a better player than his Portuguese rival Cristiano Ronaldo.

He explained that Messi’s exceptional talent allows him to play for extended periods without suffering injuries or a dip in form, whereas Ronaldo relies heavily on his physical fitness, achieved through relentless training.

The Black Stars‘ all-time top scorer and former captain asserted that Messi’s remarkable achievements in football history warrant comparisons with legendary players like Diego Maradona and Abedi Pele, rather than Ronaldo.

In an interview with TV3 on April 17, 2025, Gyan stated that although he respects Ronaldo’s talent, he would choose Messi as the best between the two.

“They don’t play in the same position. You can compare Messi to Maradona, Abedi Pele, and those players, but not Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi is the gifted one; he can play for two months without issues.

“Ronaldo, on the other hand, depends on fitness to play, and that’s where I respect him. He got to where he is through hard work and dedication. Ronaldo is a complete player, but I still prefer Messi,” he said.

The debate about the best player between Ronaldo and Messi has been ongoing, with football pundits and legends offering differing opinions.

Watch Asamoah Gyan‘s remarks below:

Meanwhile, watch part 2 of Sports Check with veteran coach JE Sarpong

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