Georgia superstar Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's old comments on Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate resurfaces ahead of Portugal clash at Euro 2024
Georgia forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's old comments about the debate involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have resurfaced ahead of Portugal's upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 clash.
Last year, Kvaratskhelia was queried to choose between the Al-Nassr star and the Inter Miami ace. While watching footage of the Portugal captain in action sitting on an exercise bike, he replied (h/t OneFootball):
"I like Ronaldo more as he is my idol, but Messi is top."
Ronaldo, 39, has etched himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time owing to his fine performances at both club and country level. He has scored 130 goals in 209 games for Portugal so far, and recorded 701 goals and 223 assists in 949 club appearances in Europe.
Messi, on the other hand, found the back of the net 704 times and contributed 338 assists in 853 club matches during his time in Europe. The 37-year-old has netted 108 goals in 183 games for Argentina so far.
Ahead of Georgia's Euro 2024 Group F clash against Portugal, Kvaratskhelia shed light on his admiration for the Al-Nassr striker. He told reporters during a pre-match press conference (h/t GOAL):
"He was an idol for me. I'm happy to see him on the field. It was a dream I had [to face him], and we'll see what happens."
Kvaratskhelia, 23, will be keen to help Georgia defeat Portugal to solidify his side's chances of qualifying for the Euro 2024 last-16 stage. He contributed 11 goals and nine assists in 45 games for Napoli last term.
Georgia will face Portugal in Gelsenkirchen on Wednesday (June 26).
Cristiano Ronaldo's side and Lionel Messi's team keen to sign 2018 World Cup winner
According to reporter Ekrem Konur, Al-Nassr and Inter Miami are both prepared to launch a move to sign Raphael Varane this summer. They are keen to sign the 31-year-old French defender on a Bosman move.
Varane, who will leave Manchester United at the end of his contract this month, is believed to have no suitors in Europe now. He could decide to reunite with former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia or play alongside Lionel Messi at the Herons.
Last season, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner struggled to shine due to a number of injuries and poor form. He helped the Red Devils win the FA Cup, starting 25 of his 32 overall appearances in the process.