Pele: Zidane was better than Messi

Brazilian legend Pele has offered his opinion that Zinedine Zidane was a more complete player than Lionel Messi.

In comments reported by Globoesporte.com, Pele says the Barcelona star is aided by the fact he has several world class players surrounding him at the Camp Nou.

“As an individual, Zidane was even better than Messi. He was a spectacular in an era where his teammates were not big names like those alongside Messi. There, at Barcelona, he has players such as Xavi and Iniesta,” said Pele.

For his part, Pele’s World Cup-winning teammate from 1970, midfielder Rivelino, feels the Argentine is behind both Barca colleague Neymar and countryman Diego Maradona.

“Neymar, for me, is technically superior to Messi, who cannot be compared to Maradona. It so happens that Messi has fitted in at Barcelona and everything has gone well for him.

“This year another player will win the Ballon d’Or,” declared Rivelino.

Curiously enough, both former players’ remarks were made at a promotional event for a brand of shampoo that has Messi as its international image.

Tags Messi Pele Rivelino Zidane
La Liga - Club News