In a recent ranking published by the Daily Mail, Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar, has been named the greatest footballer of all time, securing the top spot in their list of the top 50 footballers in history. Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s long-time rival, finds himself in the tenth position, highlighting a significant disparity between the two modern-day icons, as per the publication’s assessment.

The top 10 list features an array of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. Brazilian football legend Pele, who won three World Cups, and Argentine maestro Diego Maradona, famous for his “Hand of God” goal, also made the cut. Other iconic figures in the top 10 include French midfielder Zinedine Zidane, Dutch legend Johann Cryuff, Spanish forward Alfredo Di Stefano, Brazilian striker Ronaldo Nazario, and Brazilian wingers Garrincha and Zico.

Surprisingly, Brazilian forward Neymar, who has been a prominent figure in world football in recent years, did not find a place in the list. This omission has sparked discussions among football enthusiasts worldwide.

Messi’s achievements on the pitch have been nothing short of extraordinary, with the Argentine captain winning a record-breaking eight Ballon d’Or awards. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has clinched five Ballon d’Or trophies, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of his generation.

The Daily Mail’s rankings have reignited the long-standing debate about who is the greatest footballer of all time. While the list is subjective and open to interpretation, it provides a fascinating insight into the legacy and impact of some of the most iconic players to have graced the football pitch.