"They stay there for me" - When Raheem Sterling shared his thoughts on Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate
The 'Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo' debate has existed for a long time. The legendary players are now approaching the end of their careers. While Messi is currently playing for Inter Miami in the USA, Ronaldo has made his place in Asia, playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
The debate that perhaps started way back in 2008, will continue even after the two call it a day. In the midst of this, Arsenal winger Raheem Sterling, who joined the Gunners from Chelsea on loan this season, shared his view about the same in July this year.
During a podcast with The Footy Culture (via YouTube), the host asked Sterling to choose between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. A tough question to answer, but the 29-year-old gave a brilliant reply. He said:
"Both. For me personally, I can't pick one. They are both great in their own individual and they stay there for me."
Raheem Sterling has been a mainstay in the Premier League for a long time now. He is also an England international, having made a staggering 82 appearances for the Three Lions, scoring 20 times and assisting 27 times in the process. This season, he has registered five appearances for Mikel Arteta's side across the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and the Carabao Cup. The 29-year-old has scored once and provided one assist.
How are Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo doing now?
Lionel Messi has won two Copa America titles along with the FIFA World Cup in 2022. He is an eight-time recipient of the prestigious Ballon d'Or and has been bestowed with the honor the most times in history. The only footballer close to him in this regard is Cristiano Ronaldo, who has won it five times.
Messi, currently 37, joined Inter Miami in 2023. The side is co-owned by former English international and legend David Beckham. This season, the Argentine has appeared 17 times in the Major League Soccer and scored on 17 occasions, along with providing 10 assists.
A few days ago, he helped Inter Miami lift the coveted Supporters' Shield, which is also the club's maiden trophy.
Speaking of Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese legend is currently in red hot form for his side Al-Nassr. Having registered nine appearances this season across the Saudi Pro League, AFC Champions League Elite, and Saudi Super Cup, he has found the back of the net on eight occasions, providing three assists in the process.