[ad_1]
Football fans have criticized Steven Gerrard for labeling Cristiano Ronaldo the greatest of all time.
The former Liverpool captain is currently managing Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, having been appointed earlier this year.
Gerrard decided to attempt a new challenge in the Middle East after a poor stint at Aston Villa, he had previously done wonders at Rangers.
Last year, the 43-year-old had said that Lionel Messi was the best footballer of all time.
Football News: Steven Gerrard labels Cristiano Ronaldo a better GOAT than Lionel Messi
getty
Yet when asked about his personal favourites, he changed his tune and called Ronaldo the GOAT.
“The arrival of ‘the GOAT’, as we call him Cristiano, in January was obviously a big sign,” Gerrard told the Saudi Pro League.
“He still had a lot of football to give.
“So, from a distance, for six months, I was following Cristiano Ronaldo’s results in the league, watching some games and watching some highlights.
“I think from that moment on, the league became a very popular talking point for everyone around the world.
“After Cristiano arrived, even more big-name signings, talents and skill sets were coming into the league.”
It came after Gerrard previously praised Messi in 2022, saying: “I think both of them are working on a different planet to every footballer, apart from maybe your Peláez and your Maradona.
“But Messi, for me, is more of a team player. If he’s on goal, he’ll look for the pass and obviously post really good numbers individually as well.”
Football fans on X have now slammed Gerrard for changing his tune, while also suggesting he has no choice but to praise Ronaldo as they are in Saudi together.
One user said: “Stevie G letting that sweet Saudi Ada do the talking.”
Another said: “Can’t believe Stevie G calls CR7 a GOAT now.
“Not long ago they told Messi >CR7. It seems, it is in his contract clause in the Saudi League.”
A third said: “Gerard has also ultimately sold his honor for money. Sad.”
A fourth said: “Don’t put words in his mouth! Maybe he’s been paid evil money to say something like that.”
“Gerrard has said in the past that Messi is the GOAT?” another fan commented.
And a sixth criticized Gerrard by saying: “How much was he paid to say this?”
Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues to shine as he enters the final stretch of his illustrious career.
The 38-year-old has scored 22 goals in 23 matches in Saudi so far this season.
And he recently scored his 128th international goal for Portugal in a 2-0 win over Liechtenstein.
Speaking last month, Ronaldo was nervous when asked when he would finally retire.
Latest sports news:
Football News: Cristiano Ronaldo and Steven Gerrard are both working in Saudi Arabia these days
getty
“Things have happened in my life, both personally and professionally, that make me think more in the short term these days,” he said.
“People say I will keep playing till I am 40 or 41. I don’t set these goals.
“It’s just a question of enjoying the moment, which is a good moment.
“I feel good. My body is responding how I’ve treated it for years.”
“I am happy both at my club and at the Seleção. I have scored a lot of goals, I feel in good shape physically. It is a question of enjoying the moment.”
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25045062/236878_BLACK_FRIDAY_STILL_GET_AFernandez.jpg)
