David Beckham has weighed in on the Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo debate - and believes that the Barcelona talisman is the greatest player in the world.

The Manchester United legend insists that both superstars are a level above the rest of the sport, but views Messi as also being in a class of his own.

However, Beckham believes that the Barcelona talisman is the greatest player in the world despite Ronaldo’s stellar form across his spells at United, Real, and Juventus.

The football legend noted that both superstars are a level above the rest of the sport, but views Messi as also being in a class of his own.

Beckham, who came up against Messi during his brief stint at Paris Saint-Germain, insists it is ‘impossible’ that any player comes close to matching the diminutive Argentine’s talent.

He said: ‘He [Messi] is alone in his class as a player, it is impossible that there is another like him,’ Beckham told Argentine publication Telam.

‘He, like Cristiano Ronaldo, who is not at his level, are both above the rest.’

Beckham also recalled his encounter against Messi for PSG in their 2013 Champions League clash
The 44-year-old said: ‘We were leading before Messi came in, and once he came in, Barcelona scored.

‘Although I enjoyed playing at that level at my age, I do not like to lose. Our team played well. In both matches, we did things we should be proud of.
‘We didn’t lose against Barcelona, and that is something that should motivate us.’