Two-time World Cup winner says Neymar is better than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
Photo by Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images A two-time World Cup winner has made a bold claim about Neymar, placing him above both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The debate over football’s greatest players rarely lacks strong opinions, but this one stands out given the source. Few players have experienced the game at the highest level quite like Cafu.
The former Brazil captain built a legendary career with clubs such as Sao Paulo and AC Milan, winning major honours in South America and Europe while also lifting the World Cup twice with his national team in 1994 and 2002. His status gives weight to any judgment on elite talent. Now, he has offered a clear view on where Neymar ranks among modern greats.
Cafu insists Neymar has more talent than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Photo credit should read PEDRO UGARTE/AFP via Getty Images Speaking on the Brazilian podcast Podpah last Wednesday, Cafu said: “In my opinion, Neymar is better than Messi. Maybe Messi’s commitment is different. But, of these latest generations, Neymar is better than everyone, than Messi, than Cristiano.
“[Neymar] has more resources, without a doubt. His technical quality beats either of them. ” The former right-back made it clear that his view is based on pure ability rather than achievements and that distinction matters.
Messi and Ronaldo have defined an era through consistency and trophies, but Cafu’s argument focuses strictly on technical quality. It is a perspective that reflects how Neymar is often viewed, a player capable of extraordinary moments, even if his career has not matched the same sustained dominance. Neymar delivers a mixed display after Brazil snub Neymar’s situation adds further context to the debate.