An Oxford mathematician has developed a new ‘GOAT index’ to determine who will succeed Messi and Ronaldo as football’s next global star according to Wales Online. The debate over the ‘greatest of all time’ in football has long been dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, as the two legends continue to make their mark on the sport, a new generation of players is emerging to challenge their legacy.
Dr. Tom Crawford, a mathematician from Oxford, has updated his algorithm to identify Kylian Mbappé as the leading player in the game, with an impressive index score of 86 on the G.O.A.T. Index 2.0 rankings. Surprisingly, former Manchester City talent Julian Álvarez (84) comes in second place, ahead of English star Jude Bellingham (82) and Erling Haaland (81). The G.O.A.T. Index 2.0, commissioned by LiveScore, evaluates the achievements and potential of footballers under the age of 25 using various performance metrics such as goals, titles, and individual honours.
A key feature of the new index is the ‘G.O.A.T. Curve’, which predicts a player’s career trajectory based on their performance fluctuations over time. By analysing these curves alongside other metrics, Dr. Crawford can forecast the future potential of each player. Álvarez, with a score of 72, closely follows Mbappé’s lead at 25 years old with an impressive trophy haul, including a World Cup, two Copa Américas, and a UEFA Champions League title.
The G.O.A.T. Index 2.0 reveals interesting insights into the career paths of young players, with some following the ‘Messi Curve’ of consistent high performance, while others exhibit characteristics of the ‘Ronaldo Curve’ with fluctuations due to club changes. The index predicts a new era of players vying for individual awards and top honours in world football.
Dominic Vye, Marketing Director at LiveScore, expressed excitement about the index and the competition among young talents. Dr. Tom Crawford highlighted the thrill of identifying the next generation of football stars and the potential they hold for the future of the sport. The G.O.A.T. Index 2.0 offers fans a glimpse into the evolving landscape of football as Mbappé, Álvarez, and other rising stars aim to fill the void left by Messi and Ronaldo’s legendary careers.
For football enthusiasts, the ‘GOAT Index’ provides a fascinating look at the potential successors to Messi and Ronaldo’s throne, offering a glimpse into the future of global football.