Fans think Lionel Messi has hit back at Cristiano Ronaldo’s comments about Ligue 1 – and they could have a point.
Ronaldo, 39, who currently plays in the Saudi Pro League for Al Nassr, was a special guest at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, UAE, on Friday.
The ceremony celebrates players' achievements within the game.
The former Real Madrid, Manchester United and Sporting CP forward is the most successful player at the awards since they began in 2013, with six gongs to his name.
Advert
This time around, he was welcomed on stage to speak about several football-related topics.
While entertaining those gathered at the ceremony, he praised the quality of the SPL compared to other leagues, such as Ligue 1.
"The French league?” said Ronaldo.
“Of course [it is worse]. I don't say that because I play there [in Saudi Arabia]. They [people] should go there and play there, to see.
“To run in 38, 39, 40 degrees and sprint a few times, just to see how they're going to be. Don't believe in my words - go there and see.
"Only in France is PSG, the rest is finished.”
Although the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s comments seem harsh, it could be argued that there is an element of truth in his words, given the fact the Paris-based side dominates French football.
Since Tamin bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, purchased the club in June 2011, the Parisians have won ten league titles, seven French Cups, and five French League cups.
Luis Enrique’s side also sits ten points clear of second-place Marseille at the summit of the French top tier this term, having won 12 of their 16 league games without tasting defeat.
Of course, PSG are one of Messi’s former clubs.
The Argentinian played for the side between 2021 and 2023 and netted 32 times in 75 games before leaving for Inter Miami.
But fans think he has leapt to the defence of his former club.
Yesterday, Messi posted a photograph to his Instagram story appearing to show him opening a bottle of ‘GOAT’ wine. This could be entirely coincidental, but fans were quick to point out how this could be a ‘dig’ at Ronaldo.
One said: "At least he’s not on interviews ranting about MLS being better than Ligue 1 - GOAT for a reason."
A second added: "Don't let Ronaldo see this."
While a third commented: "Messi is the meanest without even saying a word."
Topics: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ligue 1, Saudi Pro League, PSG, Football
Luke Davies