AI Resolves the GOAT Debate, and the Outcome Doesn’t Favor Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi

Artificial intelligence has conclusively determined the greatest player of all time, and neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo holds the top position.

Lionel Messi opens up on rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo | The Independent |  The Independent

While fans, particularly those of the younger generation, have engaged in ongoing debates over who is the superior player between Messi and Ronaldo, ChatGPT has now provided a definitive answer, placing neither of the modern greats at the pinnacle.

Transfer news - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo both targets for Inter  Miami - Paper Round - Eurosport

According to AI analysis reported by The Mirror, here are the top 10 greatest football players of all time:

10. Ferenc Puskas:

Puskas, known for his impressive goal-scoring prowess, amassed 625 club goals and 84 international goals for Hungary. He achieved significant success with Real Madrid, including five league titles and three European Cups.

15 Facts About Ferenc Puskás - Facts.net

9. George Best:

George Best, despite his personal challenges, is remembered as one of Manchester United’s finest wingers. He was known for his graceful runs on the field and a flamboyant lifestyle off it.

New George Best film is a Shakespearean tragedy | British GQ | British GQ

8. Zinedine Zidane:

The elegant French midfielder was celebrated for his skills on the ball and his ability to shine in high-pressure situations. Zidane notably scored a memorable volley in the 2002 Champions League final and contributed with key goals during the 1998 World Cup with France.

Tiểu Sử Của HLV Zinedine Zidane Và Sự Nghiệp Huấn Luyện Viên Trưởng

7. Franz Beckenbauer:

Beckenbauer, the only defender on this list, redefined the role of central defense with his “sweeper” style of play. He played a pivotal role in West Germany’s World Cup victory and won numerous titles with Bayern Munich.

Franz Beckenbauer: Germany And Bayern Munich Soccer Legend

6. Alfredo Di Stefano:

Di Stefano formed a legendary attacking partnership with Puskas at Real Madrid. He scored 480 club career goals and played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s dominance during the 1950s and 1960s.

The life and times of Alfredo Di Stefano - Eurosport

5. Johan Cruyff:

Cruyff enjoyed successful spells with Barcelona and Ajax, securing ten league titles and three European Cups. He also won the Ballon d’Or three times and was a proponent of the Total Football philosophy.

Johan Cruyff: Why the Dutch master wore the famous number 14 shirt | The  Independent | The Independent

4. Cristiano Ronaldo:

Ronaldo, a dominant force at clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, boasts five Ballon d’Or awards. He holds the top spot on Real Madrid’s all-time top scorers list with 450 goals, won five Champions League titles, and clinched a European championship with Portugal.

Soccer newsletter: Cristiano Ronaldo continues to tarnish his legacy - Los  Angeles Times

3. Lionel Messi:

Messi, who has claimed a record seven Ballon d’Or awards, enjoyed remarkable success with Barcelona before his move to Paris Saint-Germain. His crowning achievement came in December when he led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar.

Lionel Messi backed to spring 2026 World Cup surprise as Argentina FA  president insists Inter Miami star can follow Luka Modric blueprint |  Goal.com

2. Diego Maradona:

Like Messi, Maradona guided Argentina to World Cup triumph in 1986 and also propelled Napoli to Serie A victory. Maradona was renowned for his creativity, dribbling skills, and mastery of the game’s intricacies.

Diego Maradona - Wikipedia

1. Pele:

Widely regarded by fans of a certain generation as the greatest footballer of all time, Pele’s accolades include three World Cup triumphs and a remarkable goal tally of over 1,000 goals, though this figure has faced some dispute.

Brazil's Pele in hospital, says he's 'strong' – DW – 12/04/2022

This AI-driven ranking offers an intriguing perspective on football’s all-time greats, with Pele earning the top spot in this analysis.

Pele's brilliance endured despite rivalry with Diego Maradona - Los Angeles  Times