“Mary Earps would’ve saved that!” - Joey Barton hits out at Lionel Messi; makes Cristiano Ronaldo comment as he reacts to free-kick goal
Former Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton has slammed Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo for moving to lesser leagues. The Argentinean is currently plying his trade in the MLS with Inter Miami.
The Portuguese, meanwhile, is with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr. Both players are in the final phases of their illustrous career, but have shown no signs of slowing down.
Lionel Messi made news on Wednesday night (October 2) by scoring two goals in the Herons' 3-2 win over Columbus in the MLS. The Argentinean was especially lauded for his second, a free-kick that left opposition goalkeeper Patrick Schulte rooted to the spot.
However, in a post shared on social media, Barton insisted that the goal only highlighted the terrible standard of the league.
"Mary Earps would have saved that! MLS is a terrible standard of football. Sad to see him (Messi) and C.Ronaldo playing in front of plastic fans, in false atmospheric stadiums. It’s like watching Mayweather’s exhibition fights," wrote Barton.
Messi has now scored 19 goals and set up 12 more from 20 games across competitions for the Florida-based club. Inter Miami have already won the Supporters' Shield this season and are now eyeing the MLS Cup.
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has also been decisive for Al-Nassr this season. The Portuguese has registered seven goals and two assists from eight games across competitions for the Saudi club.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has failed to win the league since moving to the Middle East in December 2022. Interestingly, Ronaldo's contract with Al-Nassr expires at the end of this season and he hasn't signed a new deal yet.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi could be eyeing the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated football for close to two decades, but their reign over the beautiful game looks likely to be over. Both players are missing from the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d'Or this year, which perhaps marks the end of an era.
The world is now witnessing the end of the two giants of modern football, although neither has displayed signs of slowing down anytime soon. The Argentinean has discovered a new-found motivation following his recent exploits with La Albiceleste.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese has paved the path for many world class stars to move to the Middle East. However, both players could be gearing up for a swansong at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
It would be a tremendous achievement for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the first players to appear in six World Cups. Anything beyond that will be the icing on the cake.