Iker Casillas Explains Difference Between Lionel Messi And Cristiano Ronaldo

Iker Casillas has explained that a god given talent for Lionel Messi is why he actually thinks his rival Cristiano Ronaldo is the better of the pair.

The argument between fans and pundits about whether Messi or Ronaldo is the best out of the two all time greats is will rage on for some time yet.

So many footballers have also had their say down the years and Casillas has added his voice to the discussion. The legendary goalkeeper played with Ronaldo at Real Madrid and played against Barca star Messi on many occasions.

In an interview with ESPN, the World Cup winner explained that Ronaldo's work ethic makes him the better player, saying, "Cristiano always had huge desire to be the best, every since he was a boy and I believe he has achieved that.

"If I have to compare him to Messi, what Cristiano has done is more impressive because we all know the talent Messi has, but Cristiano was determined and worked hard to be the best.

"I feel we have been lucky to have been able to enjoy two phenomenal players. For people that don't know Cristiano, he can appear to be cocky and arrogant, but it's totally the opposite."

Ronaldo and Messi will forever be compared. Image: PA Images

The pair have won an incredible amount of accolades in their time and have picked up the Ballon d'Or on 11 occasions between them, six going to Messi.

This year has been one of their worst in terms of personal silverware picked up, with neither winning the UEFA European Player of the Year and both the Ballon d'Or and FIFA The Best awards being cancelled for 2020.

Ronaldo still managed to pick up a league title with Juventus last season but Messi finished the campaign empty handed.

Both failed in the Champions League and the thrashing Barca took from Bayern in the quarter final led to Messi wanting to leave the Nou Camp.

Lewandowski may be the best in the world right now. Image: PA Images

Ronaldo is often considered the greater goalscorer of the two but, according to statistics, Messi actually outscores his rival more often than not, once penalties are taken out of the equation.

With the Barca forward reaching 33 and the Juve striker being 35-years-old, there might not be too long left to enjoy them both.

Are you team Messi or team Ronaldo? Let us know in the comments.

Topics: Football News, Barcelona, Lionel Messi, Juventus, Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid, La Liga

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a writer for SPORTbible. He covers all sport from football, formula one, cricket, rugby, tennis, athletics, mma and wrestling. He obviously hates YOUR football team and has no interest in synchronised swimming.

@Sidler28