I played against Maradona and he was a great player like Messi too.

Marco van Basten’s quote, “I played against Maradona and he was a great player like Messi too,” highlights the immense skill and talent of two of the greatest football players in history—Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. Van Basten is comparing the legendary Argentine player Maradona, whom he faced on the pitch, to the more recent star, Messi, suggesting that both are of similar caliber in terms of their impact on the game and individual brilliance. The quote reflects van Basten’s recognition of the legacy of these two players, acknowledging their extraordinary contributions to football.

By saying Maradona was a “great player like Messi too,” van Basten is emphasizing that both players share a level of greatness that stands out across generations. He draws a parallel between the two, suggesting that, much like Maradona in his time, Messi has also achieved a level of dominance and mastery over the sport. This highlights the timeless nature of greatness in football, where players can transcend their eras and leave lasting legacies.

The mention of Maradona, one of the most iconic figures in football history, and Messi, widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation, demonstrates van Basten's respect for their abilities. Both players are known for their technical skill, creativity, and ability to deliver on the biggest stages, and van Basten’s comparison underlines their shared genius on the field. For van Basten, who is also a football legend, this comparison acknowledges the level of competition and respect among elite players.

The origin of the quote comes from Marco van Basten, a Dutch football legend and former player renowned for his incredible skill and ability to score goals. As a forward for Ajax and the Dutch national team, van Basten was one of the most feared strikers of his time. His words about Maradona and Messi reflect the respect shared by many of the sport’s greatest players for these two icons of football.