I've won the Ballon d'Or - the Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate has obvious answer

Rodri has voiced his thoughts on that long-standing football debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, hailing Messi as the superior player.

Since joining Pep Guardiola's Manchester City squad in 2019, Spaniard Rodri has become a key figure, winning four Premier League crowns, collecting four more domestic titles, and bagging the prestigious Champions League with the Etihad Stadium outfit.

The 28-year-old midfield powerhouse, who's just won the Ballon d'Or for his sterling displays, recently suffered an ACL injury that curtailed his season early during a match against Arsenal - a blow which has coincided with a clear dip in City's form as their title race continues to falter.

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Speaking on the Spanish TV show, El Hormiguero, Rodri stated: "I have no doubt, Messi. In the end, I always say it, Cristiano has managed to match Messi in many things, perhaps without the innate talent that Leo has."

Although his own star continues to rise, Rodri acknowledged the enduring greatest of all-time discussion around the two giants of modern football, but has clearly positions himself in the Messi camp when it comes to choosing the best.

He added: "Those of us who actually play against them immediately notice the difference. In Cristiano's case, you didn't want him to step into the area. When he did, he was lethal; Messi was dangerous everywhere on the pitch. When Messi got the ball, you'd think; 'Danger, something's going to happen, but I don't know what'.

"I remember when I started playing against him at 17 or 18-years-old; he