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Rodrigo De Paul compared Messi and Ronaldo, noting Messi’s creativity and emotional impact, and Ronaldo’s scoring and competitiveness. Messi has 46 titles, Ronaldo 35.
Cristiano Ronaldo (left) lends a helping hand to Lionel Messi. (AP Photo)
Argentine star Rodrigo De Paul has shared his two cents on the basic difference between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The ‘GOAT’ debate featuring the two legends has been re-fueled since Ronaldo, in a recent interview, called himself the “most complete player of all time”.
Ronaldo pointed out his career statistics to back his claim. The Portuguese icon has struck 924 goals in 1263 professional appearances while winning five Ballon d’Or awards.
De Paul, who represents Atletico Madrid, was cautious in his response to query over the difference between the two footballers since he doesn’t want to create any controversy.
The midfielder insisted that there would never be another footballer of the same level as Messi.
“I suppose I should answer diplomatically because I don’t want to stir up controversy but I feel that anyone who has the slightest knowledge of football or understands it a little bit realises that there will never be anyone like Messi,” De Paul said.
The 30-year-old further spoke about how Messi has been able to secure a special place in the hearts of football enthusiasts across the globe.
According to De Paul, if the Argentine captain is recognised for his creativity and unparalleled skills, Ronaldo should be hailed for his scoring ability and never-give-up attitude.
“What he (Messi) did, what he achieved, and most importantly what he created in people’s hearts. We will not talk about titles or achievements because what he did make people pay anything just to see him, to see how he dribbles past a player and how he makes an assist. Leo is an art. Cristiano is a beast in terms of competitiveness and an exceptional scorer. But Leo is the art,” De Paul explained.
While Ronaldo has won 35 trophies during his career, Messi has 46 titles so far to his name.
The Portuguese superstar has helped his country secure the Euro and UEFA Nations League title. Messi, on the other hand, fulfilled his long-standing dream to win the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
Both have already wrapped up their European career. Messi currently plays for Inter Miami of the Major League Soccer while Ronaldo plies his trade for Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.
