Wales legend Gareth Bale has appeared to have changed his mind in the age-old Lionel Messi v Cristiano Ronaldo debate.
Bale, who hung up his boots earlier this year after a stellar career with Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and a stint with Los Angeles FC in MLS, played with Ronaldo during their time in the Spanish capital, while he faced Messi on a number of occasions when Los Blancos came up against Barcelona in El Clasicos.
The argument over who is the best player - greatest of all time, or GOAT, for the younger generation - has raged for nigh-on 15 years.
A decade ago, when he was still playing for Madrid with Ronaldo, Bale was asked who he thought was the more all-round player.
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He said: “For me, personally, I’d say Ronaldo (is a more complete player). He’s got the whole package. He’s strong, he’s powerful, he’s pacey, can head the ball, strike the ball. Obviously, you can’t say anything bad about Messi, but for the all-round complete footballer, I’d say Cristiano Ronaldo.”
However, with the passing of time, it appears the Wales legend has changed his mind.
During a quickfire 60-second pre-Champions League Q&A for sports site 433, Bale was asked “(who is) the best player to have ever won the UEFA Champions League?” to which he replies “err, Messi”.
Both the Portuguese and Argentinean have enjoyed fantastic success in the competition, with Ronaldo winning five titles and Messi claiming four. Bale also has five to his name.
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