Messi or Ronaldo? The 22 players to have played with both have had their say

Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? Who is the greatest footballer of all time?

It’s a question that has been asked for decades now.

Of course, the likes of Pele and Diego Maradona may well be the answer for some of the older generation but, with 13 Ballons d’Or between them, we can’t help but think the GOAT debate is down to just two players.

So, who is better, Messi or Ronaldo?

Football fans can debate the matter all day long but who really cares about the opinion of us mere mortals?

We think the answer can only be given by those who have actually played with both superstar players. And based on our research, we believe there are 22 players to have been fortunate enough to have featured alongside the two greatest players of all time.

But who do THEY think is the GOAT? Let’s take a look at what they’ve previously said

Source: TyC Sports

“It was a dream to have the possibility to play with [Wayne] Rooney, [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic, Cristiano [Ronaldo], Leo [Messi]… they were players that I used on the PlayStation and I would never have imagined I’d get to play with them.

“I used to watch them and then to have the opportunity to play with them was really nice.

“Leo is the best of the four, Cristiano is a monster and Neymar is simply a joy for football. He’s Brazilian and when he plays all he does is have fun.”

Winner: Lionel Messi

Source: The Sun

“If I had to pay for one player I would choose [Ronaldo]. I don’t think Cristiano will get any better as a footballer, he is already next to God in his ability.”

Winner: Cristiano Ronaldo

Source: The Sun

“[Ronaldo and I] had already played together with Real. Many years have passed, and I have found another player, a more mature person, with a family. I enjoyed playing alongside him