The GOAT debate just got a lot more interesting. Nani, who played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United and Portugal, has made a surprising choice that's turning heads across the football world.
When ESPN asked the Portuguese winger to name the greatest player of all time, he didn't pick his former teammate. He didn't pick Lionel Messi either. Instead, Nani went with Ronaldinho as his ultimate GOAT.
This is the same Nani who shared dressing rooms and won titles with Ronaldo for years. They celebrated together in the famous red shirt of United and wore Portugal's colors side by side. But when it came to picking the best ever, Nani's heart belonged to the Brazilian magician.
Why Ronaldinho Got the Nod
For Nani, it's all about the magic and joy that Ronaldinho brought to the pitch. The 2002 World Cup winner and 2005 Ballon d'Or champion represented something special. He played with a smile, with creativity, and with freedom that defined an entire era of football.
Nani didn't just stop there with his surprising picks. When asked about the best finisher ever, he chose Brazilian legend Romario over Ronaldo. And for the best dribbler? He went with Denilson, passing over Messi, Cristiano, and even Ronaldinho himself.
The only major recognition Messi got was being named the best playmaker of all time. Nani praised the Argentine's vision and ability to create football magic in any situation.
Respecting the Current Legends
Don't think Nani is disrespecting Messi and Ronaldo, though. He made it clear that fans need to appreciate these two while they're still playing. "Without Cristiano and Messi, football will not be the same, we must enjoy them while they are still playing," Nani told GOAL in 2025.
He called them "competitive machines" and warned that the day they retire will mark a significant change in football. Even though both players have moved away from Europe's biggest clubs, their impact on the game remains enormous.
For punters and football fans alike, Nani's comments remind us of an important truth. We're witnessing the twilight years of two all-time greats. While Ronaldo continues in Saudi Arabia and Messi shines in MLS, these legends won't be around forever.
Nani isn't trying to diminish what Messi and Ronaldo have achieved. Instead, he's paying tribute to a different style of football. For him, Ronaldinho represents pure joy and artistic expression that made millions fall in love with the beautiful game.
