Mikel Arteta didn't hesitate when asked to pick between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the GOAT debate

Mikel Arteta didn't hesitate choosing between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when asked who is the greatest footballer of all time.

The battle between Messi and Ronaldo has divided both footballers and football fans for over a decade, with many willing to die on the hill in support of both superstars.

When it comes to goals, Ronaldo sits on the top step after recently becoming the first player to score 900 official goals during the last international break.

However, Messi is the clear winner when it comes to Ballon d'Or wins, with the former Barcelona star commanding a record-breaking eight wins compared to Ronaldo's five.

Both stars are now winding down their careers as Ronaldo continues his goalscoring in Saudi Arabia, while Messi puts on dazzling displays in the MLS for Inter Miami.

Although they are both considerably past their prime, the debate still rages on with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta having an extremely strong opinion on the matter.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Arteta said: "It's always been Messi I can't deny. For me, my three sons it's exactly the same," he revealed.

"It's something that we have been really lucky to have the opportunity for many years to experience in my opinion the best player of all time.

"For me, it has to be because, in comparison to how much I was Messi and the others [Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele], the difference is huge," he added.

Arteta never faced off against Messi in his playing career, but did come up against Ronaldo during some iconic Everton vs Manchester United fixtures.

Mikel Arteta and Cristiano Ronaldo- Getty

The Spaniard is looking to finally break the streak of Manchester City dominance this season, and his side came agonisingly close to taking a huge step in that direction on Sunday.

Arsenal were denied victory at the Etihad thanks to a 98th-minute equaliser from John Stones, meaning City remains at the Premier League summit with Arteta's side two points behind in fourth.