Former football manager Sergei Tashuyev has ranked Lionel Messi above Cristiano Ronaldo, declaring that the Argentine forward reached a “megalevel” during an epochal career that places him alongside Pelé and Diego Maradona. Tashuyev delivered the assessment in a recent interview with Euro-Futbol.Ru, addressing Messi’s international retirement following Argentina’s recent fixtures.
Tashuyev Ranks Messi Above Ronaldo in All-Time Greatness
The comparison between Messi and Ronaldo remains a central debate in modern football, but Tashuyev offered a definitive stance on how the two iconic forwards stack up in the history of the game. According to comments reported by Euro-Futbol.Ru, Tashuyev stated that while he always liked Ronaldo, he evaluates Messi higher as a professional. “An epochal career is what Messi had,” Tashuyev said. “At the national team level, there were three footballers who had an epochal career: Pelé, Maradona, and now Messi.”
Tashuyev added that Messi left a massive footprint in the sport despite not possessing supernatural physical attributes, transforming himself into a global phenomenon. “He didn’t possess some incredible data, but he became a true phenomenon,” Tashuyev noted, emphasizing that young players everywhere have consistently strived to emulate Messi’s career and professionalism.
Messi Retires While Ronaldo Faces International Uncertainty
The remarks arrive as both players approach retirement from international competition. Messi recently concluded his tenure with the Argentina national team following a farewell match on October 7, where Argentina defeated Benin 3–0. In that fixture, the 39-year-old forward recorded a goal and two assists to cap off his international journey.
Meanwhile, the international future of 41-year-old Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo remains uncertain. Ronaldo recently departed the Portugal national team camp following a reported disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo reportedly accused the manager of breaking promises made to him, though the Al-Nassr striker indicated he remains ready to continue playing for his country after serving any potential disciplinary measures.
Looking Ahead to Post-Playing Roles
Despite the end of Messi’s playing days with the Albiceleste, Tashuyev expressed confidence that the star will maintain a profound influence on the sport. “I think Messi will still have his say after the end of his career, but in a different role,” Tashuyev told Euro-Futbol.Ru.
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