French football legend Zinedine Zidane has thrown his weight behind Lionel Messi in the long-running debate over the greatest footballer of all time, insisting that anyone who still questions the Argentine’s status does not understand the game.
Zidane’s comments reflect his firm belief that Messi’s extraordinary career and continued ability to perform at the highest level have already settled the GOAT debate.
The former Real Madrid manager also backed Messi to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, saying he would vote for the Inter Miami forward “100 times” if given the opportunity.
“I think people really don’t understand how incredible it is to still be among the best players in the world at 39 years old,” Zidane said.
Messi, who was named among the 30 nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or, has won the prestigious award a record eight times. His most recent triumph came in 2023 after playing a leading role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in Qatar.
Zidane believes Messi’s age has done little to diminish his influence, arguing that his ability to continue producing at an elite level makes him deserving of another individual honour.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Messi won the award,” he said, while questioning whether any of the other nominees had made a greater impact than the Argentine.
Messi recently announced his retirement from international football, potentially bringing his remarkable international career to a close and leaving the 39-year-old increasingly focused on the final chapter of his club career.
But for Zidane, there appears to be little left to debate about Messi’s place in football history.
“If anyone still has doubts about the GOAT debate, honestly, that person does not belong in football society,” he said.