Lionel Messi’s heroics helped Argentina win the World Cup (Photo: Getty)

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has no doubt that Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time and his opinion would not change if the striker had not led Argentina to the World Cup in Qatar.

Messi scored twice and again on penalties as he led Argentina to an emotional 4-2 penalty shootout victory over France on Sunday. The final ended 3-3 after 120 minutes of breathtaking action.

The 35-year-old, who was trophy-laden during his time at Barcelona under Guardiola, also won the Ballon d’Or for best player and supporters said his performance further cemented his stature.

“Everyone has an opinion, but no one doubts that he is the best of all time there,” Guardiola told reporters ahead of their fourth-round League Cup clash with Liverpool.

“For me he’s the best, it’s hard to understand how a player can compete with what he’s done.

“People who have seen Pele, Alfredo Di Stefano or Diego Maradona… the opinions are sentimental, but on the other hand, if he (Messi) had not won the World Cup, the opinion and my opinion would not change.”

Guardiola said City’s 16 players would slowly return to club duty during the tournament.

“Today, six players came back. You had an incredible, unique experience. Hopefully they will come back, do a good job and be able to gain experience in Canada, Mexico and the US in four years time,” said Guardiola.

“The players who were at the World Cup are in better shape than the players who were here.

“Sergio (Gomez), Erling (Haaland), Riyad (Mahrez) and Cole (Palmer), they lack some rhythm compared to Rodri or Manuel Akanji.

‘March or April, don’t worry. Now every player had different managers, different leagues… we have an important game tomorrow (in the Premier League) against Leeds (United).

“January’s schedule is demanding, so we want them back as soon as possible.”