“I know the complete footballer much better than Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi”

Oliver Kahn has crowned Ronaldo Nazario as the greatest footballer of all time, snubbing both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the GOAT debate. The argument over the best footballer of all time rages on, even after Messi's 2022 World Cup victory.

However, former Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper Kahn believes Ronaldo Nazario overshadows both current stars. Having encountered a host of fearsome attackers throughout his time between the posts, it was the so-called original Ronaldo who left an indelible mark on Kahn.

He said: “For me, Ronaldo was much better than Messi and Cristiano. I still consider him the most complete player of all time. The Brazilian was the best player I have ever seen.”

Ronaldo proved to be a thorn in Kahn's side in the 2002 World Cup final, scoring twice to lead Brazil to their fifth trophy – and leaving a bitter memory for the German goalkeeper. Despite Messi's recent World Cup glory and Cristiano's success at Euro 2016, Kahn places the Brazilian above them when it comes to being named football's ultimate legend.

Ronaldo made 481 professional appearances, scoring 309 goals and providing 75 assists. His trophy haul includes two Ballon D'Ors, two La Liga victories, two Copa Americas and that precious World Cup victory. However, unlike Messi's four Champions League titles and Cristiano's record five titles, the coveted trophy eluded him.

Kahn may revere Ronaldo as the greatest of all time, but it's not the Brazilian phenom who has caused him the most grief. Instead, he named AC Milan legend Filippo Inzaghi as the most frustrating striker to face.

With accolades including a World Cup win and two Champions League titles with Milan, it's no surprise that Inzaghi was a real pain for Kahn, who said: “Ronaldo was the best, but Inzaghi m 'was more annoying. He wasn't a great champion, but he always scored against me. It's still annoying.

While Kahn retired from football in 2008, Inzaghi played until 2012. Ronaldo Nazario retired in 2011, with his final years marred by injuries.

Messi and Ronaldo continue to battle for the GOAT title as they play out their final years in the United States and Saudi Arabia, respectively. And there's no doubt the debate will continue to captivate fans for generations after they retire.