It has been claimed that FC Barcelona and Argentina captain Lionel Messi has none of the passion the late Diego Maradona had for life and football.
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Benfica coach Jorge Jesus recently discussed the legacy Maradona has left behind, calling the 1986 FIFA World Cup winner "the greatest player in history".
The Portuguese coach hailed the late Napoli legend for his incredible passion, suggesting that his personality added to his remarkable influence on the sport.
Jesus also compared Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi's passion for the game to Maradona's, saying the Barcelona forward does not show anything like his predecessor did.
"Nowadays, between the two best in the world, (Cristiano) Ronaldo has a little bit of that, (Lionel) Messi has nothing. He has nothing… of passion. He is a great player," he said, according to ESPN.
"Be careful not to misinterpret. As for Messi, we are talking about what life and feeling is about, having a passion for the game and football.
"I think Maradona was even prominent in this regard in relation to others."
Maradona sadly died after suffering a heart attack in his home last week Wednesday, with tributes for the late Argentinian icon pouring in from all corners of the earth since.
Messi dedicated his goal in Barcelona's 4-0 win over Osasuna this past weekend to his former Albiceleste manager – you can see some images of his tribute below:
