The debate over who is the better player between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi has been raging for over a decade, and it is a debate that is likely to continue for many years to come.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the biggest names in modern football
Both players have achieved incredible things in their careers, and it is difficult to say definitively who is the better player.
Here is a comparison of their stats as of September 2023:
Statistic Lionel Messi Cristiano Ronaldo
Goals scored 814 850
Assists 339 268
Ballon d’Or awards 7 5
FIFA World Player of the Year awards 6 4
European Golden Shoe awards 6 4
Champions League titles 4 5
League titles 10 7
As you can see, the stats are very close. Messi has won more Ballon d’Or awards and European Golden Shoe awards, but Ronaldo has won more Champions League titles and league titles.
In terms of individual ability, Messi is widely considered to be the more gifted player. He is a more creative dribbler and passer, and he has a better eye for goal. Ronaldo is a more physical player and a better header of the ball.
Ultimately, the question of who is the better player is a matter of opinion. There is no right or wrong answer. Some people prefer Messi’s style of play, while others prefer Ronaldo’s. It really depends on what you value in a player.
Nevertheless, many football analysts believe that Lionel Messi is the better player. He is more complete player, and he has had a greater impact on the game but there is much respect for Cristiano Ronaldo’s achievements.
It is also worth noting that both players are still playing at a high level off the shores of Europe, and it is possible that the debate will continue in the years to come.