Cristiano Ronaldo has once again surprised with his statements about Lionel Messi, making it clear that their supposed rivalry never truly existed. In a recent interview with journalist Edu Aguirre, the Portuguese star revealed that during their multiple encounters at award ceremonies, he often acted as a translator for the Argentine. “We shared 15 years of award shows and always got along well. I remember translating English for him—it was funny,” said the Al Nassr forward.

Throughout their careers, Cristiano and Messi starred in one of the most intense rivalries in football history, with unforgettable clashes between Real Madrid and Barcelona. However, the Portuguese insisted that they pushed each other to reach an exceptional level. He compared their competition to that of legendary Formula 1 drivers Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost, emphasizing that constantly facing each other made them better players.

Additionally, CR7 admitted that Camp Nou was a special stadium for him, despite the hostility from Barça fans. “Every time I stepped onto the field, they booed me, but I preferred scoring there rather than at the Bernabéu,” he said. He even revealed that, early in his career, he could have signed for Barcelona while still playing for Sporting CP, but Manchester United moved quickly to secure his transfer.

Cristiano Considers Himself the Most Complete Player

The forward also took the opportunity to reaffirm his stance on who is the greatest footballer of all time. While he acknowledges the talent of Messi, Pelé, and Diego Maradona, he insists that the numbers speak for themselves, and his ability to score in every aspect of the game makes him the most complete player ever. With 923 career goals, Ronaldo continues to defy age and prove his worth in the Saudi Pro League.

Far from retiring, the Portuguese star maintains the same competitive mindset that has defined him throughout his career. At 39 years old, he not only remains at the top level but also continues to defend his legacy with pride. Meanwhile, his relationship with Messi remains a topic of debate, but in his own words, Cristiano has made it clear that beyond the rivalry, there was always mutual respect.