The debate over the greatest footballer of all time is the most passionate argument in the world's most popular sport — and for decades it has centred on two players of almost supernatural ability. Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, completing the one trophy missing from his extraordinary collection, and has won more Ballon d'Or awards than any player in history. His close control, vision, and ability to score and create in the most pressured moments of the biggest games make many argue he is simply the most gifted footballer who ever lived. Cristiano Ronaldo has scored more international goals than any player in history and has won league titles in three different countries. Pelé won three World Cups and scored over 1,000 career goals. Johan Cruyff invented Total Football and changed how the game is played forever. Who is the greatest footballer of all time?
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