We are categorical - we are lucky to live (or lived) in the "Messi-Ronaldo" era. The two footballers marked a huge period in the history of this sport with their genius and will certainly remain in history.
Messi and Ronaldo have been competing since the beginning of the 20th century, with millions of fans and hundreds of successes, writes bTV. However, the two have always demonstrated respect for each other. Rather, the tension comes from the supporters. But one thing is certain - they are constantly compared! One cannot "escape" on the other, although Ronaldo is currently playing in Saudi Arabia and Messi in the USA.
Messi's words
The Argentine and his Inter Miami are currently competing in the Club World Cup. After one of the matches, the topic of "Ronaldo" came up again during an interview with Messi.
"I have great respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo for the career he continues to maintain, as he continues to play at the familiar high level. The competition with him is on the field. Each of us wants the best for our team. But that only remains on the field," Messi explained diplomatically.
And off the field? "Off the field we are ordinary people. It is obvious that we are not friends. I have no time to spend together. But we have always treated each other with respect," the Argentine explained.
What did Ronaldo say?
Earlier in the year, the Portuguese commented on Messi in the same tone: "We have a good relationship with him. It's an extremely healthy competition. We understand each other well"
Who won what?
The numbers that describe the successful careers of Messi and Ronaldo are stunning! The two have a total of 9 successes in the Champions League - 4 for Messi with Barcelona and 5 for Ronaldo (one with Manchester United, the rest with Real Madrid).
In addition, they have 19 titles in the countries in which they have played. Messi is a 10-time champion of Spain with Barcelona and 2-time champion of France with Paris Saint-Germain. Ronaldo has won titles in England with Manchester United (3), Spain with Real Madrid (2) and Italy with Juventus (2).
Both have won the most prestigious individual award, the "Ballon d'Or", several times - Messi 8, and Ronaldo 5. Messi is a world champion with Argentina, while Ronaldo is a European champion with Portugal.