“When it happens in a way like Cristiano Ronaldo, that’d be problematic” - Alexi Lalas suggests Ronaldo is a ‘burden’ to Portugal in Messi comparison
Former USMNT defender Alexi Lalas reckons Lionel Messi would retire from international football before becoming a burden to Argentina, suggesting Cristiano Ronaldo is hampering Portugal. Many fans expected Cristiano Ronaldo to inspire Portugal to glory at Euro 2024 in what could be the former's last international tournament ever.
Unfortunately, A Selecao struggled to get going and were knocked out by France in the quarter-finals following a tense penalty shootout. Despite starting all five of Portugal's fixtures, Ronaldo struggled to make an impact, scoring zero goals and providing just one assist. He was also criticized by numerous pundits, with many stating his lack of mobility and all-around play was holding his team back.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi guided Argentina to a 1-0 win against Colombia in the 2024 Copa America final on Sunday, July 14. Despite being subbed off in the second half due to an injury, the 37-year-old is still performing at the highest level for his country, scoring one goal and providing one assist in the tournament.
Lalas compared both megastars on his State of the Union podcast, saying:
“If and when he [Messi] becomes a burden to this team, I don’t think he is [now], but when it happens in a way that has kind of happened to Cristiano Ronaldo, that would be problematic. I actually see himself checking out before that but again, the World Cup is only two years away."
He added:
“If his body heals, and he feels good, this [Argentina team] is a warm cocoon. With Di Maria retiring, you would’ve thought whether Messi feels the same way and it would’ve been logical for both of them to do it.”
It remains to be seen if the Inter Miami ace will call time on his international career after winning his fourth trophy in three years with Argentina. Angel Di Maria has already confirmed his international retirement while Nicolas Otamendi is expected to follow suit.
"The matter is settled" - Angel Di Maria gives his take on the Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi GOAT debate
Copa America champion Angel Di Maria recently gave his take on the GOAT debate, choosing Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo. The former explained his choice, pointing out the former's superior Ballon d'Or haul as his main reason.
Di Maria has had the privilege of teaming with both superstars, finding success with Ronaldo at Real Madrid as well. However, when asked by L'Equipe to give his verdict on the GOAT debate, he said (via Fanzword):
“The matter is settled because the best is the one who has won the largest number of Ballons d’Or, and Leo has eight compared to Ronaldo’s five. Messi and Ronaldo only think about winning. This is the mentality that enabled them to achieve everything they have achieved in football. They are still the focus of public attention even though they play in America and Saudi Arabia. This can tell you everything about them.”
Di Maria has been linked with a possible move to Inter Miami next season which would reunite him with Messi. On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo is set to continue his story for Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr after the summer break.