Andy Cole Maradona greatest player verdict places the Argentine icon above Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole has named Diego Armando Maradona as football’s greatest player of all time, placing the Argentine legend ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

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Andy Cole, who played for Manchester United between 1995 and 2001, made his position known during an interview with ESPN on Tuesday, amid the ongoing debate over football’s greatest player.

The former England international said his view differed from many ex-United teammates who have publicly backed Cristiano Ronaldo in the GOAT discussion.

Andy Cole Maradona greatest player stance, he explained, is shaped by the era he grew up watching and the impact Maradona had on the game.

When asked to name the best player in football history, Cole replied simply: “Diego Maradona.”

The former striker stressed that his verdict does not diminish his respect for Ronaldo, whom he has repeatedly praised for longevity and relentless ambition.

In 2021, following Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford, Cole described the Portuguese forward as a rare professional with unmatched hunger and consistency.

“The goals that he’s got. He’s done almost everything in his career,” Cole said at the time.
“To still have that hunger and desire tells you everything.”

Despite this admiration, Cole maintained that Ronaldo does not surpass Maradona’s influence and brilliance.

Cole also spoke highly of Lionel Messi, describing the Argentine forward as one of the finest dribblers the sport has produced, alongside Maradona.

However, he said it would be unfair for him to judge legends such as Pelé or George Best, having never watched them play live.

In a previous column for The Independent, Cole wrote that Maradona defined his footballing childhood and left a lasting impression unmatched by others he witnessed.

Beyond the GOAT debate, Cole named Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazario as the best striker he ever faced during his playing career.

Recalling a match against Inter Milan at the San Siro, Cole said the sight of Ronaldo in the tunnel left him in awe.

He described the Brazilian as a complete forward with every quality required to dominate at the highest level.

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Reflecting on his own career, Cole said he remains proud of his achievements, telling his children he feels he “half made it” in the game.