Dimitar Berbatov, the former Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich forward, has weighed in on the debate over the greatest strikers in football history. When asked to choose between legendary Netherlands striker Marco van Basten and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, Berbatov did not hesitate to pick Van Basten, believing him to be the more complete striker.
The Bulgarian, known for his elegance on the ball and intelligent play, played alongside Ronaldo at Manchester United for one season before the Portuguese star’s record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid in 2009. Despite Ronaldo’s incredible career, Berbatov insists that Van Basten’s natural striking ability set him apart.
During their time together at Old Trafford, Berbatov and Ronaldo played 39 matches together, combining for five goals. While their partnership was brief, they both left an undeniable mark on football history. However, for Berbatov, when it comes to pure striking ability, Van Basten ranks above Ronaldo.
Marco van Basten is widely regarded as one of the finest strikers to have ever played the game. The Dutchman had an extraordinary career with Ajax and AC Milan, scoring 277 goals and providing 87 assists in 373 career appearances. He won three Ballon d’Or awards in 1988, 1989, and 1992, cementing his legacy among football’s elite. His famous volley in the final of the 1988 European Championship against the Soviet Union remains one of the most iconic goals in international football history.
Van Basten was the definition of a complete striker—he possessed incredible movement, balance, finishing, and technical skill. Whether it was scoring from outside the box, executing precise headers, or delivering acrobatic volleys, he had a level of finesse that made him stand out. His presence in the penalty box was unmatched, and his ability to read the game made him a nightmare for defenders.
On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo’s career has been defined by longevity, consistency, and an unrelenting drive for success. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has shattered nearly every goalscoring record in football and is currently the highest goal scorer in the sport’s history, with an astonishing 924 career goals. His ability to score in crucial moments, from free kicks to penalties and headers, has established him as one of the most dominant players the game has ever seen.
Even at the age of 40, Ronaldo continues to perform at an elite level. His dedication to fitness, discipline, and mental strength has allowed him to extend his career far beyond what many expected. While most strikers tend to slow down in their mid-30s, Ronaldo has adapted his playing style to remain relevant in world football. His remarkable ability to evolve over time has kept him at the top for more than two decades.
Despite Ronaldo’s undeniable greatness, Van Basten’s influence on the art of striking cannot be overlooked. The Dutchman was an exceptional finisher with a keen eye for goal, capable of scoring from virtually any position on the pitch. His technique, movement, and ability to strike the ball with precision made him one of the most feared forwards of his time.
However, Van Basten’s career was tragically cut short at the age of 30 due to recurring ankle injuries. His early retirement left many wondering how much more he could have achieved had he remained injury-free. Even with a shortened career, he won three Serie A titles, three Dutch league titles, and two European Cups (now the UEFA Champions League), proving his dominance at both the club and international levels.
In contrast, Ronaldo’s trophy cabinet is among the most decorated in football history. With five Champions League titles, three Premier League titles with Manchester United, two La Liga titles with Real Madrid, and multiple domestic trophies in Italy, Spain, and England, he has conquered football across different leagues. His influence extends beyond club football, as he has also won the European Championship and the UEFA Nations League with Portugal.
In a recent interview, Ronaldo boldly claimed that he is the most complete footballer ever, ranking himself above Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, and Pelé. His confidence is backed by statistics—924 goals, 257 assists, and 35 major trophies across different leagues. His ability to score with both feet, his head, and from free kicks and penalties makes him one of the most versatile forwards of all time.
While Ronaldo’s goal-scoring numbers are unmatched, Berbatov’s argument leans towards Van Basten’s technical brilliance as a striker. Unlike Ronaldo, who evolved from a winger into a center-forward, Van Basten was a pure striker, relying on his instinctive positioning, movement, and finishing ability. His impact on the game was immense, and his early retirement only adds to his legendary status.
Football debates often come down to personal preference, and Berbatov’s opinion reflects his admiration for traditional strikers. While Ronaldo’s numbers and longevity make him one of the greatest footballers of all time, Van Basten’s artistry and natural goal-scoring instincts make him a benchmark for the perfect striker.
Many fans and analysts have weighed in on similar debates over the years, comparing players from different generations. Some value goal statistics and trophies, while others look at technical ability and influence on the game. Ronaldo’s supporters argue that his numbers speak for themselves, as he has scored more goals than any other player in football history. His ability to adapt from being a skillful winger in his early days to a clinical finisher in his later years makes his career unique.
On the other hand, Van Basten’s admirers highlight the fact that he was the ultimate striker before injuries took their toll. His ability to score in any situation, his awareness in the box, and his efficiency made him stand out. If he had played for another five years, his statistics could have been even more staggering.
Ultimately, the debate over the greatest striker in history will never have a definitive answer. Football evolves, and every era has its own legends. Some may side with Ronaldo for his incredible numbers and longevity, while others, like Berbatov, appreciate the artistry and elegance of a player like Van Basten. Regardless of preference, both players have left a lasting legacy in football and will continue to be remembered as two of the finest to have ever graced the sport.
