Recalling the time when Gianluigi Buffon settled Ronaldo vs Messi GOAT debate

 Gianluigi Buffon had once claimed that Lionel Messi was a more complete player compared to his former teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo.

The two have dominated the world of football for more than 15 years. Following their nearly decade-long rivalry in La Liga, the debate over who is the greatest of all time (GOAT) has divided the opinions of players, coaches, and pundits alike.

As reported by Sport Bible in 2018, Buffon stated:

"They are two completely different players. Messi is more complete, because he starts deeper, has more technical quality and a vision of the game that is worthy more of a trequartista (playmaker who operates behind the front line but in front of the midfield) than a finisher."

Despite picking the PSG star as his choice, Buffon feels his former teammate Ronaldo is a 'killer' in the penalty area. He said:

"Ronaldo, perhaps because he is a little older, has become a killer in the penalty area. Compared to how he was before, he preserves his energy more, so he no longer goes out to the flank for a nutmeg or trick-shot. But with one ball into the box, he can create a goal."

Buffon played with Ronaldo at the Allianz Stadium from 2019 until 2021, winning one Serie A title, one Coppa Italia and one Supercoppa, Football Italia reports.

The Portugal captain scored 101 goals in 134 appearances with Juventus, winning five trophies in Turin. Buffon is one of the most iconic players in the history of the Bianconeri, having spent 19 years at the club, including one in Serie B.