“I was lucky enough to play with many very good players” - When Lionel Messi gave clear response on playing with Cristiano Ronaldo

Lionel Messi once provided a clear response when asked if he would like to play on the same team as arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Those comments came back in 2015 when the Argentine represented Barcelona, and the Portugal international was with Real Madrid.

The 37-year-old said he would certainly like to play alongside Ronaldo but also stated that it would be difficult for the same to happen. While the pair have not shared the pitch since then, they've come up against one another on 36 occasions, with Messi's team winning 16 of those contests and losing 11.

Speaking about this in an interview in 2015, the Inter Miami superstar said (via SPORTbible):

"Yes, of course. I always like to play with the best, and he is one of them. I think it will be difficult for us to play in the same team, but obviously I would like to."

"I was lucky enough to play and participate with many very good players and obviously, I would also like to do it with him."

With both players having entered the final stages of their careers, it looks unlikely that they will ever play on the same team. Ronaldo is 39 years old and currently represents Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.

Meanwhile, Messi joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 after his contract at Paris Saint-Germain expired. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has also confirmed that the Herons will be the last club he plays for in his professional career. He is contracted with the MLS outfit till December 2025.

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Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo left out of Ballon d'Or nominees list for the first time since 2003

Lionel Messi (left) and Cristiano Ronaldo

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have both been left out of the Ballon d'Or 2024 shortlist, making it the first time this has happened since 2003. The pair have won the highest individual honor on 13 occasions (five for Ronaldo) between them during this period.

It does not come as a surprise, however, with the pair playing their football outside Europe. Meanwhile, Manchester City's Rodri and Real Madrid stars like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, among others, are considered favorites for the prize this year.

It was Messi who managed to take home this award in 2023 after he led Argentina to World Cup success in Qatar in 2022. The former Barcelona man scored seven goals and assisted thrice while winning the Golden Ball, which is given to the competition's best player.