a A new chapter in the eternal sporting rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi has emerged following comments from the former Juventus star.
But unlike other comparisons, it’s not the goals or titles that matter to the former midfielder, but what they convey. And in this sense, he was inclined to be the captain of the Portuguese national team.
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During his most active period in Serie A, Claudio Marchisio shined in the midfield of the Turin team. Marchisio was on the verge of playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo when the Portuguese star signed for Juventus in July 2018, but Marchisio canceled his contract in August 2018, just weeks after joining, and their paths never crossed on the pitch.
However, this did not prevent him from leaning towards CR7, in eternal comparison with his rival Lionel Messi.
In a conversation with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Marchisio explained that what he likes about the current Al Nasr star is his constant effort and perseverance, a point he emphasized and advised him to take into account when looking for inspiration.
“Cristiano had to improve himself. He was a product of hard work and absolute discipline,” said the 39-year-old former player. “Messi, on the other hand, was born with a special talent that no one can imitate.”
Far from detracting from the efforts and work of Inter Miami’s captain, this helps differentiate each soccer star’s style.
But one thing is for sure: 20 years on, and despite the numbers, goals, assists and titles of both legends, soccer’s greatest rivalry is far from over. All you can do is enjoy it.
Meanwhile, both teams are preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If the Argentine is allowed to compete, it will be Leo and CR7’s sixth appearance. If they do, they will go down in history as the only players to have played in so many World Cups.
Lionel Messi’s Argentina national team is in Group J along with Austria, Algeria and Jordan. Meanwhile, in Group K, Portugal will face Colombia, Uzbekistan and the winner of the intercontinental play-off between Jamaica, Congo and New Caledonia.
Argentina will make its debut against Algeria on Tuesday 16 June, before playing against Austria on Monday 22 June and Jordan on Friday 26 June.
On Wednesday 17 June, Portugal will play their opening game against the winners of the intercontinental play-off. They will play against Uzbekistan on June 23rd (Tuesday) and Colombia on June 27th (Saturday).
