'Gives you more' - ex Arsenal star issues verdict on Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate

Former Arsenal defender Lauren believes Lionel Messi is better than former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Lauren faced the Portugal legend on nine occasions during his career with the Gunners and Portsmouth while Ronaldo was at United and although he never faced Messi, the 46-year-old still believes that the ex-Barcelona man was the better player.

Discussing the debate with Sports Lens, Lauren said: "In my opinion, I would stick with Lionel Messi because he gives you more as a player.

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"But Cristiano’s mental strength is what has made him into the player he is now, it is what has allowed him to be so successful. But for me, I would choose Messi."

Ronaldo and Messi have achieved plenty of domestic accolades while the former Manchester United man helped Portugal to win the European Championships in 2016. But Messi went one better this season when he inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in a tournament which culminated in a thrilling final against France.

The 35-year-old scored twice on the night as the two teams drew 3-3 before the South Americans overcame the Europeans 4-2 on penalties. As for Ronaldo, the World Cup in Qatar holds more negative connotations. The forward was the only free agent at the tournament following his release from United in November and his Portugal side were knocked out by Morocco at the quarter final stage.

This came after an interview he did with Piers Morgan where the 38-year-old claimed that Erik ten Hag was not showing him enough respect at Old Trafford. Ronaldo also took aim at the Glazers as well as former teammates Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney in what was a scathing conversation.

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