David Beckham snubs Cristiano Ronaldo for Lionel Messi as the player he enjoys watching the most

Manchester United legend David Beckham has opened up on the player he admires the most out of Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi and Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Beckham enjoyed a prolific playing career at club level and captured major silverware during his spells at United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy and PSG.

The 47-year-old ex-Madrid and PSG star, who retired from football in 2013, crossed paths with Barcelona legend Messi at the tail end of his glittering career.

Messi has etched himself in the history books as one of the best players of all time after an illustrious playing career at club level and on the international stage.

Ronaldo followed in the same footsteps as Beckham and established himself as a legendary United No 7 during his time at Old Trafford.

Both Messi and Ronaldo are frequently placed in the so-called GOAT debate alongside legendary Argentine Diego Maradona and Brazil icon Pele.

Beckham has been an admirer of Messi and Ronaldo, with both players having previously been linked with the United legend’s Inter Miami side.

Speaking to ESPN Argentina, the 47-year-old former England captain opened up on the player he enjoys watching the most on the pitch.

Beckham snubbed fellow United legend Ronaldo in favour of Messi, who was praised for his “incredible moment” in leading Argentina to the World Cup trophy in Qatar.

“It has to be Messi. I love Leo for many different reasons. I love him because he’s a great father,” he said.

“I love him because he’s a great personality, a character. He’s a great person. But I think what everybody loves about him is the way he plays the game.

“He plays the game with passion. He plays the game just free the way he plays. And I think this past World Cup again.

“I think the way he played for his team, for his country and to win that World Cup was an incredible moment for him. And I love watching players like him.”

READ MORE:

• Argentina legend Lionel Messi says playing at the 2026 World Cup will be ‘difficult’
• Cristiano Ronaldo’s priceless reaction to being filmed by everyone in restaurant
• David Beckham has been voted as most overrated athlete of all time