Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has unequivocally named Lionel Messi as the greatest dribbler in football history, a choice that notably excludes his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
In a recent quick-fire interview, Rooney was asked to identify the best dribbler of all time and responded without hesitation, selecting the Argentine maestro over other notable players such as Ronaldo and Neymar.
Rooney's endorsement of Messi is particularly striking given his successful partnership with Ronaldo during their time together at Manchester United. The duo formed a formidable attacking force, leading the club to multiple Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League victory. Despite this shared history, Rooney's admiration for Messi's dribbling prowess remains unwavering.
Messi's exceptional close control, agility, and ability to navigate through tight defenses have earned him widespread acclaim as one of the most skillful dribblers the sport has ever seen. His dribbling skills have been a hallmark of his illustrious career, contributing significantly to his numerous individual awards and team successes with FC Barcelona and the Argentine national team.
Rooney's perspective adds to the ongoing debate among football enthusiasts and professionals regarding the comparative talents of Messi and Ronaldo. While both players have enjoyed extraordinary careers and have set numerous records, opinions on their individual skills, such as dribbling, often vary among fans and analysts.
Rooney's acknowledgment of Messi's dribbling excellence underscores the profound impact the Argentine has had on the game, influencing countless players and captivating audiences worldwide with his mesmerizing runs and ball control.