Javier Mascherano dismisses Cristiano Ronaldo’s GOAT boast as Lionel Messi’s old pal admits ‘I have my own thoughts’

Javier Mascherano has rubbished Cristiano Ronaldo's claims that he's the greatest footballer ever.

Five-time Ballon d'Or winner CR7 reignited football's GOAT debate this week by boldly declaring himself as "the most complete player to have existed" - better than Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona and Pele. But ex-Barcelona rival Mascherano disputed Ronaldo's claim to the crown. Without naming Messi, the Inter Miami manager's loyalties clearly lean towards his former Nou Camp teammate and World Cup winner.

Responding to Ronaldo's ever-modest comments, Mascherano said: "I have a lot of respect for Cristiano [Ronaldo] and I do not have to analyse his opinions. It is what he thinks. But I have my own thoughts [on the best player ever] and it is not that."

Ronaldo - who turned 40 on Wednesday - said on Spanish TV: "I am the greatest scorer in history. Although I am not left-footed, I am in the top 10 in history for goals scored with the left foot. I am the most complete player who has ever existed. I play well with my head, I take good free kicks, I am fast, I am strong, I jump... I have never seen anyone better than me."

The ex-Real Madrid and Manchester United superstar also revealed he has no plans to hang up his boots anytime soon - despite his contract with Saudi moneybags Al-Nassr expiring at the end of the season.