Former Barcelona defender and teammate of Lionel Messi, Gerard Pique, has claimed there should be no debate that Messi is undoubtedly the greatest footballer of all time. The two players played together for the Catalan giants between 2008 and 2021 until Messi left the Blaugrana to join Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

Both Pique and Messi were part of the golden generation of players coming through Barcelona’s esteemed academy La Masia and played a pivotal role behind their success in both Spain and Europe. Pique and Messi also shared a solid bond off the pitch over the years although things went somewhat bitter at the last stage.

Pique has claimed that Messi is undoubtedly the greatest footballer of all time. The former Spain international has claimed that Messi’s achievements over the years speak volumes. The retired defender told ESPN: "I see Leo happy, he fulfilled all his dreams when he started playing," Pique said. "The World Cup was the epitome of everything and I think that in Miami he is expanding soccer. With his image and the fact of playing in the MLS, he made the United States gain strength."

The former World Cup winning defender added: "Football people wanted Messi to be world champion. Especially because of the doubters who questioned his career, and said he was missing the World Cup. I think there are no longer any doubts. He is the best player in the history of football. He elevated Barcelona to another dimension."

Lionel Messi and Pique enjoyed great success in their time together at Camp Nou, winning several trophies. They were key members of the treble-winning teams at the club under Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique. Pique made a surprise announcement to retire from professional football in 2022 while Messi is still playing and is currently on the books of Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.