Chelsea legend dismisses long-running Messi-Ronaldo argument as Lionel Messi prepares for another World Cup final
Former England and Chelsea captain John Terry believes the debate over whether Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo is football’s greatest player was effectively settled long ago, saying another FIFA World Cup triumph for the Argentine would simply reinforce what many already believe.
The discussion resurfaced after broadcaster Piers Morgan asked whether a second World Cup title with Argentina would finally settle the long-running “GOAT” debate between Messi and Ronaldo. Morgan has consistently argued in favour of Ronaldo throughout their careers, making the rivalry one of football’s most enduring talking points.
Terry, however, offered a clear and emphatic response.
“For me, I don’t think there was ever really a debate in the first place. For me, Messi is the best, regardless of the outcome of the World Cup final.”
The former Chelsea defender acknowledged that while opinions will always differ, lifting another World Cup trophy would strengthen Messi’s case even further in the eyes of many supporters.
“But if he wins the trophy, it will be the ultimate confirmation of that opinion for many people.”
Messi has once again inspired Argentina to the FIFA World Cup final after Lionel Scaloni’s side produced a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semi-finals. After trailing to Anthony Gordon’s second-half opener, Argentina responded through Enzo Fernández before Lautaro Martínez scored a stoppage-time winner from a Messi assist to book a meeting with Spain in Sunday’s final.
Now 39, Messi continues to defy expectations. His performances throughout the tournament have once again underlined his enduring influence, with the Argentina captain leading his country to a second consecutive World Cup final while remaining among the competition’s standout performers.
Terry admitted he was left in awe by Messi’s latest display.
“Watching him at 39 years old last night, honestly, I would have paid money just to watch him. It was absolutely incredible in every sense of the word.”
Messi’s longevity has become one of the defining stories of the 2026 World Cup. Nearly two decades after making his tournament debut, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains the heartbeat of Argentina’s attack, continuing to produce decisive moments on football’s biggest stage.
Victory over Spain would see Argentina successfully defend the World Cup and make history as the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the title. It would also give Messi a second World Cup winners’ medal, adding another chapter to a career already filled with virtually every major team and individual honour.
While the debate between Messi and Ronaldo has divided football fans for nearly two decades, Terry believes Sunday’s final is less about proving greatness and more about celebrating it.
For the former England captain, Messi’s legacy has already been secured. Another World Cup title, he says, would simply provide what many around the football world would regard as the ultimate confirmation.