Lionel Messi opened up on his historic rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, calling it respectful and one of football’s greatest battles, while also praising rising star Lamine Yamal.
Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo (R) and Barcelona's Lionel Messi walk side by side at the end of the Spanish La Liga soccer match (PC: Xinhua/Juan Carlos Rojas/IANS)
Lionel Messi has reflected on his legendary rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, calling it one of football’s greatest sporting battles while insisting their relationship was always built on mutual respect.
Speaking during an Adidas promotional event ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Argentine superstar looked back at the era that defined modern football, with both players dominating world football for over a decade.
Advertisement
“It was a great sporting rivalry. We fought for everything, as a team and individually too. So people were always comparing us. But our relationship was always good and respectful,” Messi said, as quoted by Goal.com.
Advertisement
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner added that although they rarely interacted away from football, both stars always shared admiration for each other’s achievements.
“We didn’t cross paths much outside of matches and award ceremonies, but when we did, we got on well,” he added.
Messi also praised rising FC Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal, calling the teenager the best young talent of football’s new generation.
“There is a new generation of players who are very good and have many years ahead of them. If I had to pick one, it would be Lamine,” Messi said.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the biggest edition in the tournament’s history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Advertisement
