Zidane: If You Doubt Messi Is the Greatest, You Don’t Understand Football

Zinedine Zidane has made his position clear in the long-running debate over the greatest footballer of all time, insisting that anyone who still doubts Lionel Messi’s status as the GOAT simply does not understand football.

Messi enjoyed another remarkable campaign in the 2025-26 season with Inter Miami, producing extraordinary numbers. The Argentine superstar scored 45 goals and provided 30 assists in 49 appearances for the club.

He then continued his impressive form at the 2026 World Cup, playing a key role as Argentina reached the final and scoring eight goals during the tournament.

His outstanding performances also earned Messi a place on the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Zidane has been particularly impressed by Messi’s ability to remain among the world’s elite despite being 39 years old. The French football legend believes maintaining that level at such an age is an extraordinary achievement in itself.

“If I had the chance, I would vote for Messi 100 times. I think people still don’t realise how incredible it is to remain among the best footballers in the world at 39,” Zidane said.

The former Real Madrid manager would also not be surprised if Messi wins another Ballon d’Or.

“If Messi wins the award again, I wouldn’t be surprised at all. Honestly, if someone still doubts that he is the greatest of all time, they should have no place in football society,” Zidane added.

Zidane has also placed Messi ahead of France’s biggest current star, Kylian Mbappé, in the debate over football’s greatest players.

For the French legend, Messi’s continued excellence at the highest level at the age of 39 is extraordinary. While the GOAT debate may continue among fans, Zidane’s verdict is unequivocal: Lionel Messi remains the benchmark for greatness in football.