‘Messi doesn’t make my all-time World XI’ — Top journalist snubs Argentine, adds Ronaldo, former Barcelona stars

Lionel Messi might be regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, but British journalist Piers Morgan doesn’t think he’s earned a spot in his all-time World XI.

In a fresh jab posted to social media, Morgan once again expressed his unwavering preference for Cristiano Ronaldo, while leaving out the Argentine World Cup winner entirely.

Taking on X (formerly Twitter), Morgan laid out his dream team, which notably included several football legends, but not Messi.

His chosen XI consisted of England great Gordon Banks in goal, with a backline of Cafu, Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, and Roberto Carlos.

His midfield featured Zinedine Zidane, Lothar Matthaus, and Ronaldinho, with Diego Maradona playing just behind a front two of Ronaldo Nazário and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Morgan added, “Assuming peak performance, this is my GOAT team,” making clear that even at his best, Messi did not make the cut.

The controversial broadcaster has long shown a bias toward Cristiano Ronaldo and often used his platform to downplay Messi’s achievements.

In the past, Morgan even claimed his infamous interview with Ronaldo, which led to the striker’s explosive Manchester United exit, ultimately helped Ronaldo land “the biggest transfer deal in football history” with Al-Nassr.

Speaking to Tetlar magazine, Morgan defended Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia by arguing that the Portuguese star took on a fresh challenge, unlike Messi. “What gives him the edge over Messi,” Morgan said, “is that he continues to challenge himself in new countries and leagues.”

He further cited the Qatar World Cup, where Saudi Arabia beat Messi’s Argentina, as proof of the region’s rising footballing status.