In 2016, Lionel Messi picked Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard over Paul Scholes and Frank Lampard in the age-long debate of who was the better English midfielder. The former Reds captain was one of the most revered midfielders of his generation, and alongside the other two stars, formed the midfield of the Three Lions’ golden generation.
Gerrard registered 114 caps for the England national team, scoring 21 goals. He could not help the Three Lions win their first international trophy since the 1966 World Cup, but he led Liverpool to the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Cup (now Europa League), two UEFA Super Cups, two FA Cups, and three League Cups.
Speaking to the press in 2016, the Argentine great hailed the midfield great, saying (via SPORTbible):
“Personally, I think [Steven] Gerrard is England’s greatest-ever player. I wish him a happy retirement.”
Lionel Messi faced Gerrard two times across both legs of the 2006-07 Champions League Round of 16, winning 1-0 and losing the other clash 2-1. The England star retired from professional football in January 2017 and is now the manager of Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
“It’s a dream for me to have Messi at Al-Ettifaq” – When Steven Gerrard urged Lionel Messi to join him in Saudi Arabia
In July this year, Steven Gerrard revealed he would love to have Lionel Messi join Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq. The World Cup-winning star currently plays with MLS outfit Inter Miami.
Messi is widely believed to be the greatest player in the sport’s history, with eight Ballon d’Or awards and the World Cup in his kitty. Speaking about a potential signing in an interview with Egyptian television channel MBC Masr 2, Steven Gerrard said (via GOAL):
“It’s a dream for me to have Messi at Al-Ettifaq. He is an incredible player and would be a great asset for the club. I know it’s difficult for him to move to Saudi Arabia, but there’s nothing wrong with dreaming.”
Lionel Messi is contracted to Inter Miami until December 2025, having joined the Miami-based side for free in the summer of 2023. He has been phenomenal for them, helping them to their first two titles, the Leagues Cup and MLS Supporters’ Shield, the latter with a record 74 points. He is also their all-time top scorer with 34 goals and 18 assists in 39 games across competitions.
