The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is continuing to defy all expectations at the World Cup this summer as he bagged 5 goals in his first two games in what has been an incredible start.
After surpassing Miroslav Klose's all-time scoring record with a brace in Monday's 2-0 victory over Austria, many have compared the Argentina superstar to rival Cristiano Ronaldo in what is a long-running feud.
Speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest World Cup odds, Malouda revealed that such a debate will never end, even if Messi cannot be compared in terms of numbers.
"Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo? I don’t think Messi can end the debate this summer, I think this debate will be going forever. Whatever they do, they will still be compared.
"But we have to really acknowledge what Messi is doing now at nearly 39, in his first two games, he scored five goals. And the type of aura that he has in the stadium and in his own team, I mean, this is greatness.
"So about the debate, of course, they will look at the result of Portugal against the result of Argentina. Every fan will support their own player. But when we see what he's doing, I don't think even Maradona can be compared in terms of longevity.
"Pelé, I think he won three World Cups. So, he can be compared to Pelé as the greatest, but in terms of numbers and statistics, no one is near him."
Messi, who has scored 12 World Cup goals since turning 35, has now scored in six consecutive World Cup fixtures and at 39 years old he continues to inspire generations of players.