"He's still the best player in the world" - Lionel Messi's ex-coach Christophe Galtier reacts after being beaten by 'extraordinary' Cristiano Ronaldo

Lionel Messi's former manager Christophe Galtier declared that Cristiano Ronaldo was still the best player in the world after the latter inspired Al-Nassr to a 4-3 win against Al-Duhail last night (October 24).

Al-Nassr faced Christophe Galtier's Al-Duhail in the AFC Champions League at home. Ronaldo assisted Anderson Talisca in the 25th minute to open the scoring. Sadio Mane then doubled the side's advantage in the 56th minute.

Cristiano Ronaldo got among the goals five minutes later with a weaker-foot screamer from outside the box into the top-left corner. Al-Nassr's shakiness at the back enabled Ismail Mohamad (63') and Almoez Ali (67') to score one goal apiece.

However, Ronaldo got his second strike of the net in the 81st minute to restore the host's two-goal advantage. Micheal Olunga scored four minutes later but Al-Nassr held onto their lead to secure all three points.

Despite having more chances to win the game, Al-Duhail were undone by Ronaldo's brilliance on the night. The Portuguese forward scored two goals, provided an assist and created three big chances.

Galtier, who managed Lionel Messi at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) last season, admitted that Cristiano Ronaldo was the best player in the world. He said (via The Daily Star):

"When you face Ronaldo, there isn't much you can do. He scored two beautiful goals. I'm at a loss for words to describe him. What he did today is extraordinary for a 38-year-old. He's still the best player in the world."

Ronaldo's man-of-the-match performance helped Al-Nassr maintain their position at the summit of Group E with nine points from three games.

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How have Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi fared since leaving European football behind?

Ronaldo and Messi dominated European football for nearly two decades, winning nearly every possible trophy at the club level. During this time, they fiercely dominated the GOAT debate for over a decade, winning a mammoth 12 Ballons d'Or between them.

Let's take a look at how they have performed since leaving Europe:

Cristiano Ronaldo joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr as a free agent in January 2023. Despite not winning an official trophy to date, the Portugal superstar has been in sensational form in the Middle East. He has scored 28 goals and registered nine assists in 32 appearances across all competitions.

Lionel Messi left PSG as a free agent in the summer transfer window, joining MLS side Inter Miami. The 36-year-old has done well for himself under Tata Martino, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists in 14 appearances. He also won the Leagues Cup - the first trophy in the Herons' history.