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Guberniev: Maradona played better than Messi and Ronaldo

Russian journalist Dmitry Guberniev considers Maradona superior on the field to Messi and Ronaldo, highlighting the Argentine's unrepeatable talent and the importance of the work of players like Rodri in current football.

6 August 2026
Guberniev: Maradona played better than Messi and Ronaldo

Guberniev: Maradona played better than Messi and Ronaldo

According to Championat.

Context

Diego Maradona, one of the most iconic figures in Argentine football, is often remembered for his extraordinary skill and unforgettable moments, such as his performance in the 1986 World Cup. While Maradona is considered a football genius, Lionel Messi, currently at Inter Miami, and Cristiano Ronaldo, at Al Nassr, are often praised for their consistency and professionalism throughout their careers.

Why this matters

Dmitry Guberniev's statement about Diego Maradona highlights the eternal comparison between football legends. The discussion about who was the best player, between Maradona, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, continues to be a polarizing topic among fans and sports experts. Guberniev's analysis also highlights the importance of Maradona's innate talent, which transcended his era, even if Messi's career is considered unparalleled.

Main conclusions

  • Guberniev: Maradona played better than Messi and Ronaldo.
  • Russian journalist Dmitry Guberniev considers Maradona superior on the field to Messi and Ronaldo, highlighting the Argentine's unrepeatable talent and the importance of the work of players like Rodri in today's football.
  • Губерниев: Марадона играл в футбол лучше, чем Месси и Роналду.

Dmitry Guberniev, a well-known Russian journalist and sports commentator, argued that Diego Maradona was, on a purely footballing level, superior to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. In statements to the Russian environment

During the conversation, the commentator appeared wearing a Maradona shirt, remembering that he has followed the former Argentine number 10 since the 1982 World Cup and that he witnessed the 1986 and 1990 campaigns up close, as well as the controversial spell in 1994, when the striker participated in the tournament in the United States before being removed. For Guberniev, Maradona combined unique talent and charisma, capable of transforming even a simple warm-up into a moment that went around the world — a true “showman” and ball magician.

When establishing the parallel with Messi (Inter Miami) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr), Guberniev was emphatic: in the short term and in the impression left by the football played, Maradona had the advantage. Still, he highlighted that Messi's career is “incomparable” with that of El Diez, highlighting the Argentine's consistency and brilliance on several major international stages. He also added that, when it comes to relationships with the body, training and discipline, both Messi and Cristiano stand out for their exemplary professionalism, something that was not always present in Maradona's career.

Image

Guberniev took the opportunity to frame his vision within a broader idea about the game's stars and workers. He pointed to Spanish midfielder Rodri as a symbol of modern football: less exuberant than the names that monopolize covers and awards, but absolutely fundamental in the balance and success of his team, highlighting elements such as the enormous volume of work and efficiency in passing. He also recalled that Spain today has a generational talent like Lamine Yamal, although not at the same level of global aura as Messi or Cristiano.

In contrast, he left a critical note about the French attack front, using a pop metaphor — he said it was far from being “The Beatles”, or even “Kiss” — and finished with expectations about what Zidane could build from that group. The commentator's final message was clear: more than superstars, football is often shaped by hard-working and reliable players, those who sustain victories and titles.

Guberniev's words reignite an eternal debate among fans: how to weigh the pure talent, the impact in big games and the spectacle offered by Maradona against the longevity, numbers and consistency of Messi and Cristiano? A discussion that, inevitably, also involves the Portuguese public, for whom CR7's legacy is a matter of passion and football identity.

What happens next

Guberniev's statements could reignite heated debates among football fans about Maradona's qualities compared to Messi and Ronaldo. Expect more analysis and discussion to emerge on social media and in the media as fans re-evaluate the legacies of these iconic players. Furthermore, the reference to Rodri suggests that hard work and professional ethics are increasingly valued in modern football.

Frequently asked questions

What did Dmitry Guberniev say about Diego Maradona?

Dmitry Guberniev stated that Diego Maradona was, in football terms, superior to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Who confirmed Maradona's superiority over Messi and Ronaldo?

Dmitry Guberniev, a well-known Russian journalist and sports commentator, made this claim.

Why did Guberniev make this statement now?

Guberniev made the statement during a conversation with Russian media outlet Championat, while reflecting on Maradona's career and impact on football.

What changes did Guberniev highlight between Maradona, Messi and Ronaldo?

Guberniev highlighted that, while Maradona had a unique talent and charisma, Messi and Ronaldo stand out for their professionalism and consistency throughout their careers.

What is Guberniev's relationship with Maradona?

Guberniev mentioned that he has followed Maradona since the 1982 World Cup and witnessed his campaigns in 1986 and 1990.

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