He placed Cristiano Ronaldo above Lionel Messi, attacked the Argentine, and now he has passed away

Football bids farewell to one of its most unique and controversial figures. Hugo Orlando Gatti, the legendary goalkeeper of Boca Juniors and the Argentina National Team, passed away this Sunday at the age of 80 after being hospitalised in Madrid. His impact on the sport is undeniable, but so is his powerful character, sharp tongue, and his courage to speak what many would not dare to. Gatti was much more than an exceptional goalkeeper; he was a man who managed to become a media phenomenon that never left anyone indifferent.

On the field, his style was as daring as his presence in the media. A pioneer among goalkeeper-players, he would venture outside the area, ball at his feet, trusting his intuition over conventional methods. But off the field, Gatti continued to stir things up. As a commentator on Spanish television, particularly on "El Chiringuito," he became a prominent voice, known for his controversial opinions, jokes, and discussions that always brought something new to football debates.

One of his most remembered interventions was when he dared to compare Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, choosing the Portuguese over the Argentine. "Cristiano has been more important than Messi in recent times. He played in bigger clubs, was more of a goalscorer, always willing to give everything… Cristiano surpassed Messi, and even now, he's still better," he said without hesitation. And to stir up the debate further, he added: "CR7 plays in a football that isn’t as demanding, but he has another speed, while Messi is playing in a comfortable environment."

This comment sparked a great deal of controversy, especially since it was an Argentine who criticised the star of his own country. Opinions were divided: some condemned him, while others saw him as a man who never feared to speak his mind, regardless of the backlash. For Gatti, the most important thing was always staying true to his thoughts, without filters. Some called him a character, others a "charming madman," but what was indisputable was that he never went unnoticed.

His passing leaves a void not only in football but also in television debates. Gatti represented one of the last voices speaking about the sport with passion, intense emotions, and strong opinions. Although his views were often questioned, they always sparked interesting and freeing discussions. His way of seeing football, so visceral and emotional, reflected that part of the sport where the rational and the emotional merge.

Beyond his controversial comparisons between Messi and Cristiano, what is undeniable is Gatti's deep love for football. With over 700 official matches played, he won titles, defended legendary goals, and left an indelible mark on the history of the sport. With his departure, a unique way of living football, an irreplaceable voice, and an unmistakable style are gone.

"Cristiano was better than Messi": The controversial comparison Gatti never

The controversy generated by this statement remains a recurring topic in football discussions. Gatti remained true to his truth, regardless of the consequences, and with his farewell, football loses a provocateur who never hid behind political correctness.