Most FIFA players can hardly imagine it any other way: Either Messi or Ronaldo are at the top of the ratings – as in FIFA 22. But in the future, this could change after years of dominance by the two superstars.
Since FIFA 09, either Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo has had the highest rating in FIFA, and even in the current installment, Messi holds the highest rating of all players again. With an overall rating of 94, the Argentine is ahead of Lewandowski (92), Ronaldo (91), and Mbappé (91).
However, early signs indicate imminent downgrades, and in the community (via reddit), there is intense discussion about a changing of the guard at the rating top, and why Ronaldo and Messi might not be among the best players in FIFA 23 anymore.
Why Messi and Ronaldo could be dethroned from the rating throne
Both superstars switched clubs at the beginning of the current season. Lionel Messi now plays for Paris Saint-Germain, and Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Manchester United. Notably, both players are unable to match their previous performance at their new clubs. Especially Messi is struggling.
In 26 games for his new employer so far (as of March 19, 2022), the 34-year-old forward has managed only 7 goals. For Ronaldo, who is now 37 years old, it looks a bit better with 18 goals in 33 games.
So are downgrades justified? Although the statistics of Ronaldo and Messi are not as impressive as in previous years, they are still noteworthy. And especially Ronaldo is still playing at the highest football level in the Premier League.
It is quite possible that both superstars will slowly have to leave the rating throne and settle for ratings in the low 90s or high 80s. Potential candidates for the top rating in FIFA 23 could be Lewandowski, Mbappé, Salah, or Benzema.
The community agrees
The community agrees that the current performances of the two superstars are unlikely to justify top ratings in FIFA 23. Some FIFA players even believe that ratings over 90 would be unjustified. Here are some comments:
- Dangeduedfr: ‘Messi and Ronaldo will not fall below 90. Both will get -1.’
- HamidiateEffect: ‘For the top spots, you have to look at Salah, Lewandowski, Benzema, and Mbappé this time. I don’t see FIFA justifying ratings over 90 for Messi and Ronaldo.’
- haasecsgo: ‘Messi really doesn’t deserve a 90 next year.’
- ConrrHD: ’90 for both would be fair. Maybe 89 for Messi, but -5 would be a crazy downgrade.’
What do you think about the performances of Ronaldo and Messi? Should they be back at the top in FIFA 23? Let us know in the comments!
If you want to know what big feature could be waiting for you in FIFA 23, then take a look here:
First leaks about FIFA 23 indicate a long-awaited feature – Is crossplay finally coming?
