French football legend Zinedine Zidane has strongly backed Lionel Messi in the debate over the greatest footballer of all time, saying those who still doubt the Argentine’s status do not understand football.
According to Marca, Zidane was also emphatic in backing Messi’s Ballon d’Or candidacy, 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, 39, was named among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with the shortlist released on Tuesday.
The Argentine has won the prestigious award a record eight times, more than any other player in history. His latest triumph came in 2023, following his influential role in Argentina’s World Cup victory in Qatar.
The Frenchman said Messi’s continued ability to produce performances at the highest level makes him a strong contender for individual honours despite his age.
“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, a decision that could signal the beginning of the final stage of his professional career.
Zidane was even more direct when asked about the long-running debate over the greatest player in football history.
“If anyone still has doubts about the GOAT debate, honestly, that person does not belong in football society,” he said.
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