Former Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri has had his say on modern football's most dividing question: who is the best, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo?
The French midfielder has joined mid-table battlers West Ham, where he has been reunited with ex-Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini.
Nasri started his first Hammers game against former team Arsenal. He set-up the only goal of the game in an impressive 1-0 win.
Media duties for the two-time Premier League champion saw him answer a set of either/or questions, where, of course, that famous Messi and Ronaldo debate was brought-up.
With little hesitation, Nasri answered: "Lionel Messi, just because I think he is gifted by God.
"Cristiano Ronaldo is more of a professional, hard-working guy.
"Ronaldo is the example you follow."
The Frenchman has endured sixth months on the sideline after being found guilty of a doping offence by UEFA after breaking World Anti-Doping Association rules in December 2016. His ban was extended to 12 months following an appeal from UEFA's disciplinary and ethics inspector, however it was backdated to July 2017.
Although it's still too early to call, it seems Nasri is relishing the opportunity of top-flight English football. He left Manchester City on loan to Sevilla before a permanent move to Turkish side Antalyaspor.
Nasri has faced both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi on the pitch, but it's probably not enough to put this debate to bed - despite the refreshing directness of it.
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Words by Kane Allen
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Manchester City, Samir Nasri, Football News, Football, Lionel Messi, Premier League, Arsenal, Cristiano Ronaldo
