Lineker's Take: Messi Reigns as Football's GOAT, Ronaldo Still a Scoring Machine

Memories from the 1986 World Cup and a Great Debate

Football legend Gary Lineker, England’s former striker, states that Lionel Messi stands as the best player in the history of the sport. In an exclusive interview with journalist David Faitelson for TUDN México, Lineker uses the moment to look back on the greatest moments of his own career, from the 1986 World Cup in Mexico to today’s stars like Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Erling Haaland.

Memories mixed with the 1986 World Cup

Lineker recalls his run at the 1986 World Cup, where he netted six goals in five matches. He concedes that, despite such achievements, the tournament’s ending left a sour taste. He muses about the “goal that nobody remembers” in the quarterfinals, a moment linked forever to Maradona’s famous Hand of God, which he describes as the period’s iconic goal.

He explains that his career shifted after that tournament, as his performances drew attention from big clubs, leading to a move to Barcelona in 1986. Lineker notes that Maradona’s legendary strike, seen from the opposing half, was an unforgettable moment, and that watching it on TV was painful for England as a team and for him in particular.

Despite the drama surrounding Maradona’s goal, Lineker insists he does not bear a grudge toward the Argentine star, whom he regards as one of football’s greatest due to goals like the second in that World Cup match and the enduring memory it created for fans worldwide. He adds that the incident underscored how far technology could or could not go at the time, revealing some tension about refereeing decisions and the role of the linesman in signaling the possible use of VAR had it existed back then.

Lineker famously says that witnessing Maradona’s extraordinary goal was a moment when he briefly contemplated clapping the opposing team’s brilliance, a rare concession in football where respect can transcend competition. He calls that goal an extraordinary moment in a high-stakes game, arguing it is among the best goals in the history of the sport because of its historical weight and its timing.

Messi the greatest of all time

In recent years, Lineker has become one of Messi’s strongest admirers, describing him as “the best player of all time” and praising Ronaldo’s goal-scoring prowess as well. He reflects on two players who defined two decades: Messi and Ronaldo, noting that their rivalry has driven football to new heights. For Lineker, Messi’s achievements place him at the pinnacle, having won everything and done spectacular things on the pitch. He also acknowledges Ronaldo’s greatness and incredible goal-scoring record.

The conversation then turns to modern striker Erling Haaland, whom Lineker hails as a “goal-scoring machine.” He regrets that Haaland did not choose the English national team path, but he remains excited about the young striker’s continued impact.

A distinguished career and lasting legacy

Lineker is remembered as one of England’s most prolific forwards, leaving an indelible mark on multiple World Cups and becoming a prominent broadcasting figure after retirement. Born November 30, 1960, in Leicester, he began his professional career with Leicester City before moving on to Everton and Barcelona. His Barcelona spell is highlighted for its speed and tactical intelligence, contributing to the attacker’s status among the era’s elite in both European and domestic competition.

Internationally, Lineker’s World Cup tally is legendary, marked by six goals in 1986 and a Golden Boot for the tournament’s top scorer. He also played in 1990 in Italy, guiding England to the semi-finals before a penalty shootout exit to West Germany. He scored 48 goals in 80 England appearances, finishing as one of the country’s all-time leading scorers and earning a reputation for his clean style and discipline on the field.

Post-retirement, Lineker transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a leading football analyst and voice of reason in the sport, while continuing to write about the game. His list of individual honors includes golden boots for World Cup top scorer and recognition as one of England’s greatest players, along with multiple books that share insights into football philosophy and culture.

In sum, the conversation paints Messi as today’s supreme player, with Ronaldo still a formidable force, while Lineker’s own journey from Leicester to global stages illustrates how footballing greatness weaves together talent, opportunity, and history. The exchange honors a sport that keeps evolving, yet remains anchored in iconic moments and legendary figures.

Two light-sniper punchlines to close:

1) If defending were a cuisine, Messi would have cooked the whole menu—and the chef would still be asking for seconds. 2) Ronaldo scores so many goals that even his GPS redirects to the net and says, “Nice shot, again.”