A new chapter in the eternal sporting rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi emerged after statements made by a former Juventus star.
However, unlike other comparisons, for the former midfielder, it’s not the goals or titles that matter, but what they convey. And, in this sense, he leaned towards the Portugal captain.
CR7, the choice of a former Juventus star
During his most dominant period in Serie A, Claudio Marchisio shone in the Turin team’s midfield. He was on the verge of playing with Cristiano Ronaldo when the Portuguese star signed for Juventus in July 2018, but just a few weeks after his arrival, Marchisio terminated his contract in August of that year and their paths did not cross on the pitch.
However, this did not prevent him from leaning towards CR7 in the eternal comparison with his rival, Lionel Messi.
In conversation with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Marchesio explained that his preference for the current Al Nassr star comes from his constant effort and perseverance, something he highlighted and advised to take into account when seeking inspiration:
“Cristiano had to build himself up. He was a product of hard work and absolute discipline,” said the 39-year-old former player. “Messi, on the other hand, was born with a special gift that few can replicate,”
This, far from detracting from the effort and work of the Inter Miami captain, serves to differentiate the styles of each soccer star.
However, one thing is certain: after two decades and despite the numbers, goals, assists, and titles of both legends, soccer’s greatest rivalry is far from being decided. The only thing to do is enjoy them.
Meanwhile, both are preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This would be Leo and CR7’s sixth appearance in the tournament, if the Argentine confirms his participation. If they do, they will go down in history as the only two players to have played in this many World Cups.
Lionel Messi’s Argentina national team is in Group J, alongside Austria, Algeria, and Jordan. Meanwhile, in Group K, Portugal will face Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the winner of the Intercontinental Playoff between Jamaica, Congo, and New Caledonia.
Argentina will make its debut against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16. It will then face Austria on Monday, June 22, and Jordan on Friday, June 26.
On Wednesday, June 17, Portugal will play its opening match against the winner of the Intercontinental Playoff. On Tuesday, June 23, it will face Uzbekistan, and on Saturday, June 27, it will face Colombia.
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