2026 World Cup: "A new world title would make Messi the greatest of all time," says Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney has taken a stand in the eternal debate over the greatest player in history ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. The former England captain believes that another world crown for Lionel Messi would once and for all end the comparisons.

Wayne Rooney is calling for the greatest player of all time debate to end if Messi lifts the World Cup. The former Manchester United star highlights the level displayed by the Argentine captain throughout this World Cup. He also points out that, at 39, Messi continues to perform at the highest level and remains decisive on the biggest stage.

For Rooney, a second world title would cap off an already exceptional career and would definitively tip the debate in the Argentine's favor.

"If Argentina wins the World Cup, I think Lionel Messi will put an end to all debates. He will be the greatest of all time. Even Cristiano Ronaldo's supporters will have to respect that. I've always said you could pick either one, but what Messi has achieved at this World Cup… If you add the previous World Cup to this one, and at 39 years old, it definitely ends all debate."

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.