I'll take him over Messi, Ronaldo — Brazil legend Cafu picks 34-year-old as best of this era

The eternal debate over the "Greatest of All Time" usually begins and ends with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

However, two-time World Cup winner Cafu has sensationally snubbed the legendary duo, claiming a 33-year-old Brazilian icon is technically superior to both in the modern era of football.

Speaking on the popular Brazilian podcast PodPah this week, the former Roma and AC Milan captain didn't hold back when asked about the best player of the modern era.

While he acknowledged the incredible achievements of Messi and Ronaldo, Cafu insisted that in terms of pure footballing ability, Neymar stands alone.

"In my view, Neymar is better than Messi," Cafu asserted.

"Looking at this latest generation, Neymar is superior to everyone else. Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Mbappe... technically speaking, he surpasses them all."

Cafu, who led Brazil to their last World Cup title in 2002, was careful to distinguish between natural talent and professional discipline.

While he ranks Neymar's skill set as the highest in history, he admitted that Ronaldo’s work ethic remains the gold standard.

"Neymar has more talent and more resources at his disposal. But of course, when it comes to commitment and taking care of himself, I would choose Cristiano Ronaldo," the legend explained.

The comments come at a pivotal time for Neymar. Now 33 and having returned to his boyhood club Santos in early 2025, the forward is fighting to prove he can still lead the Selecao at the 2026 World Cup.

For Cafu, there is no doubt that a fit Neymar is the most dangerous weapon in world football. "For 15 years, he carried the entire burden of the national team by himself," Cafu added.

"Today, he finally has players around him who can help. If he is at 80%, he is still a match-winner."