During a discussion in 2019, Arsene Wenger, who had a storied career managing Arsenal, weighed in on the ongoing debate between who is the true football great—Ronaldo or Messi. At the time, both players boasted an equal number of Ballon d’Ors, emblematic of their shared dominance in the sport. Wenger’s insights were not just about choosing sides but appreciating the distinct qualities that each player brings to the game.
“I would say that they are so good that it’s difficult to choose – in 10 footballers of the year, it’s five and five, so that shows they are really on the same level. Artistically, Messi is as well a guy who can give the final ball, so he’s maybe more a creative player than Ronaldo,” Wenger remarked in his interview with GiveMeSport. He elaborated on his preference by highlighting Messi’s artistic nature, “Ronaldo is more a finisher, better in the air, more athletic, and Messi is the more artistic. So basically, you are always tempted a little bit more by a player like Messi.”
The Evolution of a Rivalry: Where Are They Now?
Since Wenger’s comments, the landscape of football has continued to evolve, and so have the careers of these two legendary figures. Lionel Messi has gone on to win three additional Ballon d’Or trophies, bringing his total to eight, while Cristiano Ronaldo has maintained his count at five.
Their rivalry, which once defined an era of football, has also matured. Ronaldo moved to play for the Saudi Arabian team Al-Nassr, and Messi took his talents to Inter Miami. Despite the geographical distance and their advancing years, the competitive spirit between the two seems everlasting.
Ronaldo on His Relationship with Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo has openly addressed the nature of his relationship with Lionel Messi, debunking any myths of animosity. In an interview earlier this year with La Sexta, he stated, “I never had a bad relationship with Messi. On the contrary. I hope so (if there will ever be another rivalry like this), it would be very good for football… but I think it’s unlikely.” This comment not only sheds light on their mutual respect but also on the uniqueness of their rivalry that continues to captivate the football world.
As both players near the end of their playing days, with Ronaldo’s contract set to expire in a few months and Messi also in the final year of his contract with Inter Miami, fans are left to wonder what the future holds for these icons. Will they renew their contracts, or will they seek new challenges? Only time will tell.
A Legacy Beyond Comparison
The debate between who is greater, Ronaldo or Messi, may never be conclusively settled. Each player possesses unique attributes that have allowed them to excel at the highest level. Wenger’s commentary not only highlights the difficulty in choosing but also the beauty in appreciating their different styles. As the football community continues to debate, it is clear that both Ronaldo and Messi have left an indelible mark on the sport that will resonate for generations to come.
As we reflect on Wenger’s words and the ongoing journeys of these two football greats, the real winner, perhaps, is the sport of football itself, which has been irrevocably enriched by their contributions.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.