Red Devils legend talks about GOAT debate

Only one man stands above Cristiano Ronaldo in Ballon d’Or wins — Lionel Messi, with eight. Together, these two icons defined an era, going head-to-head for Europe’s top honors and gifting fans around the globe with unforgettable moments.

Ronaldo’s journey began at Sporting CP, but it was under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United where his potential exploded. What followed at Real Madrid was pure footballing greatness, etching his name among the legends of the game.

Early in his career, Ronaldo dazzled with flashy footwork and flair. But as time went on, the numbers became just as dazzling. He lifted three Premier League titles and played a vital role in United’s 2008 Champions League triumph, scoring a superb header in the rain-soaked Moscow final against Chelsea.

At Old Trafford, Ronaldo shared the pitch with some of the Premier League’s finest — legends like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, and Wayne Rooney. Even though his two exits from the club were shadowed by controversy, his legacy at Manchester United remains intact. Ronaldo became a global superstar there — a true icon of the game.

For over a decade, fans have fiercely debated: Ronaldo or Messi — who’s the greatest of all time?

But for Ryan Giggs, there’s no debate. After spending six seasons alongside Ronaldo, his answer is clear. When Rio Ferdinand asked him to rank Ronaldo among the elite players he’d played with, Giggs didn’t hesitate.

“The best,” he told Ferdinand during an episode of Rio Meets.

Ferdinand even pushed further, asking if he thought Ronaldo was better than the great Eric Cantona. Giggs response was fast.

"He’s the best. I remember sprinting across in one game in the winter and I’ve took Cristiano out and the manager has gone mad. I’ve gone, it’s a tackle gaffer,’ and he’s gone, I know yeah but just take care. He’s a special player. The first year was hard for him, but the more I think – and you’d seen it – more in training, where if he took too many touches he’s getting kicked. The gaffer wasn’t giving fouls.”