French football legend Zinedine Zidane has thrown his weight behind Lionel Messi in the long-running debate over the greatest footballer of all time, insisting that anyone who still questions the Argentine’s status as the GOAT does not understand the game.
Zidane also backed Messi to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, saying he would vote for the Inter Miami forward “100 times” if given the opportunity.
“I think people really don’t understand how incredible it is to still be among the best players in the world at 39 years old,” Zidane said.
Messi, 39, was named among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or after the shortlist was released on Tuesday. The Argentine has won the prestigious individual award a record eight times, with his most recent triumph coming in 2023 following his influential role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in Qatar.
Zidane said Messi’s ability to continue performing at the highest level despite his age makes him a serious contender for another Ballon d’Or.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Messi won the award,” he said, while questioning whether any of the other nominees had produced a greater impact than the Argentine.
Messi has also recently announced his retirement from international football, a decision that could mark the beginning of the final chapter of his illustrious professional career.
Asked about the enduring debate over the greatest player in football history, Zidane was unequivocal.
“If anyone still has doubts about the GOAT debate, honestly, that person does not belong in football society,” he said.
