Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi
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USMNT and Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie has weighed in on the enduring "GOAT debate" between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The duo has stood as pillars of the modern football era for years.
Having played alongside Ronaldo during his stint at Juventus, McKennie had the opportunity to witness firsthand the remarkable work ethic and talent of the Portuguese superstar. In an interview with Heat, McKennie shared his perspective on the GOAT debate, offering his verdict.
“We know Ronaldo and have seen him up close, so I would say Cristiano'', the American said.
McKennie's sentiment found resonance in his Juventus teammate Moise Kean, who emphasized Ronaldo's unwavering commitment to his profession. He stated : ''Yes, I also say Cristiano, but Messi is a different footballer. Messi has a natural talent that was given to him by God. Ronaldo did everything thanks to hard work. At three in the morning after a match he was doing cryotherapy. They told him, really? Go to sleep!"
Despite Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami and Cristiano Ronaldo's transfer to Al-Nassr, their influence remains unmistakable. Messi's stellar performances have propelled Inter Miami to the top of the MLS table, while Ronaldo continues to demonstrate his goal-scoring prowess in the Saudi Pro League.
Deco, a former Barcelona midfielder who shared the pitch with a young Messi and also played alongside Ronaldo in the Portuguese national team, shared his perspective. Speaking to AS, Deco described Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as "the greatest," underscoring their enduring excellence throughout their careers. He remarked, ''From the outset, it is clear that Leo and Cristiano are the greatest. Especially because no-one thought they could take so many years to this level."
Reflecting on their differing approaches, Deco had previously observed Ronaldo's insatiable thirst for success and relentless drive for improvement.
"They were always very different. It was clear with Cristiano that he always wanted more. He always wanted more in training and in games - he always asked for more. He was a lot less calm with his success'' he told FourFourTwo.
Deco underscored the importance of having both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in a team, noting their capacity to elevate the performance of their teammates.
"The ideal world would be to have both in my team. With them, you just pass them the ball and the rest is done'', he further added.
