‘We’re Not Friends’ – Lionel Messi Clarifies Relationship With Ronaldo

‘We’re Not Friends’ – Lionel Messi Clarifies Relationship With Ronaldo

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has shed light on his relationship with longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing that although they are not friends, there is a strong sense of mutual respect between them.

Despite now playing in different regions with Messi in Major League Soccer (MLS) and Ronaldo representing Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, their careers have long been compared, sparking ongoing debates among fans and analysts over who truly reigns as the greatest of their era.

In an interview with DSsports, Messi explained that their rivalry was confined to the football field, especially during their intense encounters in Spain’s El Clasico, where he played for Barcelona and Ronaldo for Real Madrid.

“I have a lot of respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo and for the career he’s had and continues to have, because he’s still competing at the highest level.

“The competition with him was on the pitch. Each of us wanted to do the best for our team. Obviously, as always, everything stayed on the field.

“Off the pitch, we are two normal people. We’re not friends obviously because we don’t spend time together, but we’ve always treated each other with a lot of respect.”