The debate over who is the greatest footballer in history never truly ends. Every generation has its icons, and every fan their own definition of greatness. But when someone as outspoken and respected as Zlatan Ibrahimović speaks, the football world listens.

True to his trademark confidence and blunt honesty, the Swedish legend finally revealed his verdict on who he believes is the greatest of all time. And no — it’s not Lionel Messi or Diego Maradona.

Zlatan’s “God of Football”

“In my opinion, Ronaldo ‘El Fenómeno’ Nazário was football. He’s the kind of player everyone wanted to imitate,” declared Ibrahimović, leaving no doubt that the Brazilian sits alone atop his personal hierarchy.

The former striker — who played for clubs like PSG, AC Milan, and Barcelona — praised not only Ronaldo’s technical ability but also his influence on an entire era.
“Ronaldo had something unique — the way he moved, his power, his ability to glide past defenders... it was pure magic. Nobody played like him,” Zlatan explained, admitting he modeled parts of his own game on the Brazilian superstar who redefined football in the ’90s.

Maradona and Messi complete his top three

Despite his admiration for Ronaldo Nazário, Ibrahimović didn’t leave out Argentina’s legends. He placed Diego Maradona second, calling him “a complete genius who played with his heart.”

For third place, Zlatan chose Lionel Messi, giving full credit to the Argentine’s unmatched career: “I don’t think there’s anything left for him to win. He’s done it all.”

A verdict that carries weight

Having conquered leagues in nearly every country he played in and faced the greatest names of the 21st century, Ibrahimović speaks from experience, not nostalgia.

His verdict reflects his philosophy — admiration for skill, respect for passion, and fascination for players who dared to be different. To Zlatan, Ronaldo Nazário wasn’t just a striker — he was the definition of football itself.