Lionel Messi has expressed his great appreciation for Cristiano Ronaldo, noting that their relationship off the pitch isn’t strong, but that respect has always prevailed between them.
On every occasion, Ronaldo has also expressed his respect for Messi, emphasizing that their on-field rivalry has always been a motivating factor.
This time, it was Messi’s turn to discuss his rivalry with Ronaldo, which has been ongoing since 2007, although it has eased slightly since both players left Europe.
Messi said, “The rivalry between Cristiano and me was on the pitch, and each player wanted to give their best for their team.”
He added, “But it’s clear that everything between us was on the pitch. Off it, we’re just two normal people.”
He continued, “We’re not friends, of course, because we haven’t spent much time together, but we’ve always had great respect.”
He concluded, “I have great admiration for Ronaldo because of his tremendous career, and he still does because he continues to compete at the highest level.”
The Saudi League may witness the final meeting between Messi and Ronaldo, amid reports of attempts by Al-Ahli Jeddah officials to sign the Flea when his contract with Inter Miami expires at the end of the current season.
