Zidane Shuts Down Messi Doubters: You Don’t Understand Football If You Still Doubt Him

French football legend Zinedine Zidane has thrown his support behind Lionel Messi in the long-running debate over who deserves to be regarded as football’s Greatest of All Time (GOAT).

Zidane, a former Real Madrid manager and one of football’s most respected figures, said he finds it difficult to understand why anyone would still question Messi’s status at the top of the game.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Zidane also backed the Argentine superstar to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, declaring that he would vote for Messi “100 times” if he had the opportunity.

The Frenchman particularly highlighted Messi’s remarkable longevity, noting that the forward continues to perform among the world’s best players at the age of 39.

Zidane’s comments came after Messi was included among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The Argentine remains the most decorated player in the history of the award, having won it eight times.

Zidane said Messi’s continued ability to perform at the highest level despite his age makes him a strong candidate for another Ballon d’Or triumph. He added that he would not be surprised if the Inter Miami star claimed the prestigious individual award again.

Messi enjoyed a remarkable 2025–26 campaign, helping Inter Miami to the MLS title before producing an impressive World Cup campaign with Argentina. His performances earned him another place on the Ballon d’Or shortlist despite being 39.

On the GOAT debate, Zidane was even more emphatic, arguing that anyone who still doubts Messi’s position as the greatest has failed to properly appreciate the game.

The former France international’s comments are likely to reignite the long-standing debate between supporters of Messi and other football legends, particularly Cristiano Ronaldo.

With Messi once again among the Ballon d’Or nominees, Zidane’s strong endorsement has added another major voice to the growing discussion over the Argentine’s place in football history.