Cristiano Ronaldo omitted from L’Équipe Champions League all-time XI

L’Équipe has released its all-time UEFA Champions League XI, a selection that has sparked significant debate following the omission of Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite being the competition’s all-time leading scorer with 140 goals in 183 appearances and having won five titles, Ronaldo was not included in the lineup.

In the attacking positions, Lionel Messi was selected, while Alfredo Di Stéfano was chosen over Ronaldo. The historic lineup also features legends such as Johan Cruyff, George Best, Luka Modrić, and Andrés Iniesta. The defensive unit includes Franz Beckenbauer, Franco Baresi, Dani Carvajal, and Paolo Maldini, with Ray Clemence in goal.

Social media reactions have been largely critical of the decision. Supporters have pointed to Ronaldo’s record-breaking statistics, including his 67 knockout-stage goals, arguing that his exclusion is difficult to justify given his dominance in the tournament's history.