Lionel Messi is a player of Inter Miami
Fresh off a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup, Lionel Messi not only made headlines for his stunning free kick, his 50th goal for Inter Miami, but also his rare and composed remarks about longtime rival, Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Argentine’s comments, centred on mutual respect and the end of their fierce competition, have triggered a tidal wave of fans reactions across social media.
Speaking after the match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where he curled home a trademark left-footed free kick to seal victory for Inter Miami, Messi reflected on his years battling Ronaldo at the pinnacle of world football.
“The competition between us was on the pitch, and each one of us was striving to do the best for his team whenever and wherever he was. But of course, everything remains, as always, on the pitch, and after that, we go back to being two normal people,” he said.
Although the Argentine admitted that they are not the best of friends, he still acknowledged the success Ronaldo has had throughout his career.
“We’re not friends, of course, because we don’t spend time together, but what we share is always within a framework of great respect. I have great admiration for what he has achieved in his career and what he continues to achieve, because he continues to compete at the highest levels,” he added.
The quote, modest and mature, instantly became a catalyst for debates.
Many fans praised Messi for his humility and composure, claiming his words revealed the stark contrast in personality between the two footballing icons.
A strong faction of supporters argued that while Messi keeps his rivalry professional and respectful, Ronaldo has, in the past, used interviews and social media to make pointed remarks or assert his superiority, a move they see as boastful and unnecessary.
But not everyone agreed with that narrative.
Ronaldo’s fans quickly jumped to his defence, pointing out that the Portuguese superstar has also spoken respectfully about Messi on multiple occasions.
They highlighted past interviews in which Ronaldo referred to their rivalry as “special” and said he had “affection” for Messi, even reminiscing about translating for him at award ceremonies.
These fans argue that the portrayal of Ronaldo as arrogant is exaggerated, and often stems from the media and fan interpretations, rather than Ronaldo’s actual words.
Read some of the reactions below:
They both respect and love themselves but Ronaldo himself knows Messi is the GOAT
— SAFO NYAME HERBAL THERAPEUTICS (@safonyameherbal) June 20, 2025
Ronaldo will screenshot this quote, frame it, and hang it on his wall, lmao.
— ~ Kay Parker (@su_pre_mo) June 20, 2025
Ronaldo: “He always treated me well and respected me”
Messi: “We’ve always treated each other with a lot of respect”
One is egocentric, the other humble.
— Kunle Coded (@kunle_codes) June 20, 2025
Messi had a better media experience than Ronaldo. If this were Ronaldo, he would have said something that would trigger a five-day debate on this app.
— Amourab (@amourab) June 20, 2025
This is no lie
Messi has a lot of respect for Ronaldo but he keeps on disrespecting Messi whenever he has the opportunity to talk about Messi.For this reason Messi will forever be greater than him
— Brave (@Brave_FCB) June 20, 2025
FKA/AE
Meanwhile, watch the latest edition of Sports Check with former Hearts of Oak midfielder Frederick Ansah Botchway
