People could Prefer Messi, but I’m the most complete player: Ronaldo

In a candid interview, Ronaldo asserts his unparalleled versatility on the field while acknowledging fans’ admiration for Messi, Maradona, and Pele .Ronaldo declares himself the greatest footballer ever while reminiscing about his healthy 15-year rivalry with Lionel Messi.

BY PC Bureau

Cristiano Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, has once again made headlines with bold claims about his legacy. The Portuguese icon, currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, spoke candidly in an interview with Spanish media outlet LaSexta TV.

Despite years of rivalry with Lionel Messi, Ronaldo admitted that he respects fans who prefer other football legends like Messi, Pele, or Maradona. However, he firmly asserted his belief in being the most “complete” player to ever grace the sport.

“I think I’m the most complete football player that has ever existed. People could like Messi, Maradona, or Pele, and I respect it, but I’m the most complete. I’m the best player in football history. I haven’t seen anyone better than me, and I’m saying this truth from my heart,” Ronaldo declared.

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A Respectful Rivalry with Messi

Ronaldo also shed light on his long-standing relationship with Messi, dispelling rumors of animosity during their 15 years of shared dominance on the football stage.

“I’ve never had a bad relationship with Messi. We’ve shared 15 years of awards, and we’ve always gotten along well. I remember that I used to translate English for him, and it was very funny,” Ronaldo recalled.

“He defended his club, and I defended mine. I think we gave each other feedback. It was a healthy fight,” he added.

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Defending His Legacy

When questioned about his goal-scoring achievements, Ronaldo provided a confident response:

“What does a goalscorer mean? It’s someone who puts the ball in the goal. I do everything in football. I play well with my head, I take good free kicks, I have a left foot, a right foot, I’m strong, I go out… I think I’m the most complete player that has ever existed.”

Cristiano Ronaldo: “I’m the most complete player EVER. To say that Cristiano isn’t complete is a lie”.

“You may prefer Pele, Messi, Maradona, I understand and respect that”. pic.twitter.com/1FRiVmDBok

— Elian Enmanuel (@ElianEnmanuel1) February 4, 2025

Ending the interview on a definitive note, Ronaldo emphasized his unmatched stature in football.

“I think so; I have not seen anyone better than me. I tell you this from the heart.”

Ronaldo’s statements are sure to reignite the age-old debate about football’s greatest, cementing his place as a player confident in his legacy and abilities.

Here is a comparative performance box highlighting the relative achievements and statistics of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi across key football metrics:

Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi: Performance Comparison Box

Summary

• Ronaldo Strengths: Renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, aerial dominance, and physicality. Holds the record for most Champions League goals and has been a key figure in Portugal’s success.
• Messi Strengths: Celebrated for his playmaking ability, dribbling, and vision on the field. Holds more Ballon d’Or wins and cemented his legacy with a World Cup victory in 2022.

Both legends have redefined football over the last two decades, with the debate over who is superior continuing among fans and pundits alike.