Manchester City midfielder Rodri has reignited the age-old debate over the greatest footballer of all time by claiming that Cristiano Ronaldo lacks the innate talent that defines Lionel Messi. Speaking on Spanish TV show El Hormiguero on Wednesday, Rodri praised Messi as unmatched in football history, while asserting that Ronaldo’s achievements come from hard work rather than natural ability.
“Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time, without any doubt,” Rodri stated. “Cristiano has managed to match Messi without innate talent. But those of us who have played against them can see the difference.”
The Spanish international detailed how the two legends differ on the pitch, explaining that Messi’s threat is omnipresent, while Ronaldo’s primary danger lies in the penalty area.
“With Cristiano, we didn’t want him to step into the box because he was lethal there,” Rodri added. “But with Messi, the danger was everywhere on the pitch.”
The midfielder also reflected on his recent triumph at the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, where he edged out Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior for the award.
“There was a rumour three weeks prior that Vinicius was going to win, so I had no optimism going to the gala,” Rodri revealed. “But just before arriving in Paris, people started congratulating me. I didn’t even have a speech prepared, but my father insisted I write one just in case.”
Rodri’s remarks have sparked intense debate among football fans, with some viewing them as a dismissal of Ronaldo’s accomplishments. While Messi and Ronaldo’s rivalry continues to divide opinions, Rodri’s perspective adds fresh fuel to the discussion.
