Cristiano Ronaldo has never been one to shy away from a spotlight — or a rival. For over a decade, he and Lionel Messi dominated the football world in a back-and-forth battle of brilliance.
They broke records, won trophies, and split fans right down the middle. But now, with the clock ticking on their careers, Ronaldo has given a rare glimpse into how he truly feels about his greatest footballing counterpart.
Ahead of Portugal’s Nations League final clash with Spain, Ronaldo sat down with reporters and got a bit reflective. And yes, Messi came up (in conversation) — as he always does.
What Cristiano Ronaldo said about Lionel Messi?
“Of course I have affection for Leo Messi,” Ronaldo admitted. “We’ve been on stage together for 15 years.”
He even shared a lesser-known story: “I remember translating English for him at the Galas because he didn’t speak English well. He always treated me well and respected me.”
🚨 Cristiano Ronaldo: “Of course I have affection for Leo Messi. We’ve been on stage together for 15 years”.
“I remember translating English for him at the Galas because he didn’t speak English well. He always treated me well and respected me”, reports @Alfremartinezz. pic.twitter.com/ycQREr3NpP
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2025
For two players who once defined El Clásico as much as Real Madrid and Barcelona themselves, the respect was clear. Their rivalry might have been fierce, but the feelings off the pitch were far from frosty.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Ronaldo also dropped an unexpected note of connection: “I have a lot of affection for Argentina. My wife is Argentine… You never know.”
While he didn’t confirm anything, his words sparked buzz about a possible appearance at the Club World Cup — where Inter Miami, Messi’s current club, is set to play.
Cue the wild dreams: Ronaldo and Messi on the same team. Fantasy football, literally. Club World Cup tease, but no reunion yet.
Rumors suggested some Club World Cup teams were pushed to sign Ronaldo — perhaps even Inter Miami. But reports quickly cooled that idea. “Inter Miami, no interest,” said journalist Mike Ryan.
Still, Ronaldo left the door slightly ajar: “I find it very difficult, but you never know.”
