Lionel Messi says he has never even tried to come to terms with being branded the greatest of all time - and feels that God has played a key role in his journey.
The 34-year-old secured a seventh Ballon d'Or title at Monday night's ceremony in Paris; an achievement that has only intensified debate amongst fans as to who is the best player in history.
For every person who believes Messi is the greatest, there's another who maintains great rival Cristiano Ronaldo deserves acclaim for his efforts at Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.
That being said, the Paris Saint-Germain forward, who has scored nine goals in all competitions for club and country this season, says he doesn't know if he's the greatest of all time.
In fact, being labelled as one of the best players in world football right now is enough for the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner.
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"I never said, thought, or even tried to come to terms with this idea [of being the greatest]," he told France Football.
"For me, just being able to be considered or cited as one of the best players in the world is more than enough. It is something that I would never have dared to imagine or dream of.
"But... I don't know how to put it so that it's not misinterpreted. It's not that I'm not interested in it, but, let's say that I don't not give much importance to all that.
"It doesn't change anything for me to be the best or not. And I never tried to be either."
Messi went on to explain that he doesn't like to be called a role model in the chat with France Football.
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"I don't know if I'm a role model," he added. "I don't like being a role model or giving advice.
"I fought for my dreams. At first it was to be a professional player, then I tried to surpass myself and achieve new goals every year.
"In the midst of it all, there is also an element of luck. It also depends on God, and I believe he chose to have all of this happen to me."
According to former Barcelona and Brazil striker Rivaldo, Messi deserved the Ballon d'Or this year but he is not the best ever.
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"He will be remembered as one of the best players ever, but it's tough to say he already is the best, as he is still chasing a World Cup title with Argentina," he told betfair.
"Other players, such as Pele, won the World Cup many times so I don't think Messi should be considered the best ever.
"He is up there, though, and would make the top three."
Thoughts on Messi's recent interview? Is he the greatest of all time?
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Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football, Lionel Messi, Ballon d'Or, Argentina
