Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano responded on Tuesday to Cristiano Ronaldo's recent statements, in which the Portuguese forward declared himself the greatest footballer in history. While the Argentine showed respect for Ronaldo, he made it clear that his opinion differs.

"These are just opinions. I obviously have a lot of respect for Cristiano, and I don’t need to analyze his point of view. That’s what he believes. I also have my own thoughts, which are different, that's all," Mascherano said in a press conference. His words referenced the never-ending debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, with whom the former defender shared a locker room at FC Barcelona and the Argentina national team.

The discussion reignited after Cristiano Ronaldo, in an interview with La Sexta, declared that he considers himself the greatest footballer of all time. "I believe so, I haven’t seen anyone better than me. I say it from the heart," said the Al-Nassr forward, reaffirming his conviction about his football legacy.

For his part, Mascherano avoided controversy, but his words subtly suggested that he has a different choice. His close relationship with Messi, with whom he won multiple titles and shared historic moments, reinforces the idea that his preference leans towards the Argentine star, whom he has praised on many occasions.

Concern for Messi after a harsh foul in Panama

Beyond the debate, Mascherano also addressed the harsh challenge Messi suffered in the friendly match against San Miguelito in Panama, which resulted in the expulsion of Aymar Cundumí. "The red card didn’t surprise me, but the foul did. More than surprising us, it worried us because it was a match with no rough play. It’s a shame because what fans want is to watch Leo, and having a tackle like that, which could injure him, is concerning," he said.

With these statements, Mascherano made it clear that, while he respects Cristiano Ronaldo's opinion, his stance on the greatest player in history is different, reaffirming his admiration for Messi.