The age-old debate that seems destined to persist for eternity revolves around one question: Who reigns supreme between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi?

Both individuals stand as perhaps the greatest footballers to have ever graced the beautiful game, and they find themselves in the twilight of their illustrious careers on the pitch.

Ronaldo currently plies his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr after a glittering journey through Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, punctuated by a stellar international career with Portugal.

Messi, on the other hand, recently made a move to MLS side Inter Miami, following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain after over a decade at Barcelona. He also achieved a lifelong dream by winning the World Cup with Argentina.

These two legends boast a combined tally of over 800 senior professional goals, leaving no doubt that they have etched their names indelibly in the annals of football history. The title of the greatest of all time could arguably be bestowed upon either of them.

Former Premier League striker Peter Crouch, who enjoyed spells with Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Stoke City, has now entered the fray of this timeless debate and expressed his opinion.

During an episode of his own podcast, “That Peter Crouch Podcast,” the retired English striker unequivocally declared his preference in the Ronaldo versus Messi discussion.

Crouch, who had faced Ronaldo on the pitch during their Premier League encounters in the 2000s, appears to firmly align with the Messi camp. In a somewhat controversial stance, he asserted that those who favor Ronaldo in this debate “don’t possess a deep understanding of football.”

His statement drew a strong reaction from his co-host on the podcast, Chris Stark, who remarked, “That’s an absolutely extraordinary thing to say. That is insulting to a lot of people!”

To this, Crouch responded, “I think Ronaldo is incredible – incredible – but I do look a little bit down on you if you say Ronaldo.”

Clearly, Crouch has made his stance clear on the matter, leaving little room for ambiguity in his perspective.