"I hope in the future" - When Cristiano Ronaldo commented on his relationship with Lionel Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have remained the two most prolific and influential names in football for the last two decades. Both are considered among the greatest players to have graced the beautiful game.
Over the years, both Ronaldo and Messi have shared their admiration for each other, crediting themselves for staying at the top for more than a decade. Cristiano Ronaldo famously claimed he would like to have dinner with Lionel Messi in an interview during the 2019 UEFA Champions League draw.
"I was curious because we shared this stage for 15 years me and him. I don't know if that has ever happened in football, the same two guys on the stage at the same time, so it's not easy. Of course we have a good relationship, we have not had dinner together yet but I hope in the future," Ronaldo said (via Daily Mail).
The two legends were spotted sitting next to each other during the UEFA event alongside Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk. Messi and Ronaldo were nominated for the UEFA Player of the Season award in 2019, but van Dijk won it that night.
Despite leaving Europe, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to remain in impressive form for their respective clubs. The Portuguese legend recently crossed the 900 career goal mark and is lethal in front of goal for Al Nassr. Messi, meanwhile, recently returned to action for Inter Miami after remaining outside for almost two months owing to an ankle injury.
"I always like to play with the best" - When Lionel Messi said he would like to play with Cristiano Ronaldo
In a 2015 interview, Lionel Messi was asked if he would like to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo sometime in his career. The Argentine ace was playing for Barcelona then, while Ronaldo was at Real Madrid. Messi replied (via SPORTBible):
"Yes, of course. I always like to play with the best, and he is one of them. I think it will be difficult for us to play in the same team, but obviously I would like to. I was lucky enough to play and participate with many very good players and, obviously, I would also like to do it with him."
Although Messi and Ronaldo never played for the same team, the former acknowledged that their rivalry helped both grow and compete at the highest level, making it enjoyable for the fans. The legendary duo's rivalry reached its peak between 2009 and 2018 when they represented arch-rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Despite the rivalry, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have shared mutual respect and admiration. The two have won 13 Ballon d'Or awards between them, with Messi having eight and Ronaldo five.