Cristiano Ronaldo's honest view on whether Lionel Messi has finally settled the GOAT debate

Cristiano Ronaldo has given his views on the GOAT debate involving Lionel Messi.

Over the years, both Ronaldo and Messi have been battling at the top of European football.

After Messi clinched World Cup glory in Qatar two years ago, many felt the Argentine is now the undisputed GOAT of football.

However, fans of Ronaldo will always back the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Speaking about the debate himself, Ronaldo played down the impact of the World Cup on his legacy.

Ronaldo said previously: "Even if I win the World Cup that will continue. Some people like me more, some less. It’s like in life, some like blondes, some like brunettes.

"I have always had to show what I can do year after year. I would love to win this tournament.

"I’m ambitious but if you tell me I won’t win any more tournaments I would still be happy given all I have won. In the history books, all other records will be there. But obviously, a World Cup on the shelf wouldn’t be bad. It would be a dream."

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Since then, both Ronaldo and Messi have ditched European football.

Back in January 2023, Ronaldo left Manchester United for the second time to join Saudi Professional League side Al Nassr.

After Ronaldo made the move to the Middle East, clubs in Saudi Arabia have been splashing the cash to lure some of Europe’s biggest names to the Saudi Professional League.

Last summer, the likes of Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kane, Roberto Firmino, Riyad Mahrez, Fabinho and Neymar have all made big-money moves to Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, Messi left Paris Saint Germain in the summer of 2023 to join Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, who are part-owned by former England captain David Beckham.

Messi was quickly joined by former Barcelona teammates Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets at Inter Miami.