Cristiano Ronaldo's former teammate Karim Benzema has picked the former Barcelona star as his GOAT
Karim Benzema has responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s bold claim that he is the greatest footballer of all time, offering a different take on the debate.
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The former Real Madrid teammates, now rivals in the Saudi Pro League, remain among the league’s top scorers, but their opinions on football’s GOAT differ.
Benzema responds to Ronaldo’s statement
In a prior interview, Ronaldo said, “I believe I am the most complete player that ever existed. I respect people who like Messi, Pele, or Maradona more. But to say that Cristiano isn’t the most complete is a lie. Honestly, I haven’t seen anyone better than me.”
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Speaking to TNT Sports, Benzema addressed Ronaldo’s statement, saying, "Anyone can say whatever they want; if he thinks he’s the best in history, then he is.
“There are many. For me, it’s Ronaldo, the one from Brazil. I don’t like making comparisons between players because everyone has their own story."
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While Ronaldo insisted that he is the most complete player to ever exist, Benzema chose not to engage in direct comparisons, instead naming ex-Barcelona and Real Madrid star Ronaldo Nazário as his personal footballing icon.
From Madrid allies to Saudi rivals
Benzema and Ronaldo shared nine successful years at Real Madrid, forming one of football’s most dominant attacking partnerships.
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Together, they lifted four UEFA Champions League titles as well as two LaLiga titles and two Copas del Rey, while setting records in European football.
Now, the duo continues to shine in Saudi Arabia, where they are currently tied at the top of the Saudi Pro League’s goalscoring charts with 16 goals each.
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Although their careers have taken them away from Europe’s spotlight, the debate over football’s greatest player continues and Ronaldo remains confident in his legacy.