The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi has been one of the most captivating of the past two decades. While both players are now veterans, they continue to lead their teams and make a significant impact. The debate over who is better, however, will always persist. Recently, Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli weighed in on the discussion, making his choice clear.
In a recent interview with ESPN, Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli made headlines. He chose Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi in a playful question-and-answer session. However, the conversation did not end there. Martinelli also expressed his wish to have played alongside the Portuguese icon. He recalled Ronaldo’s tenure at Manchester United when he shared the field with him: “I could not believe (that) he was next to me.”
Martinelli and Ronaldo share the same position on the left wing. They also play with strikingly similar styles. Since his Premier League debut, Martinelli has been known for his speed and clinical finishing. His ability has drawn frequent comparisons to Ronaldo. Former teammate Cedric Soares even likened him to the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. “Gabi (Gabriel Martinelli) has this aim for goal. He likes to attack the space, like Cristiano,” affirmed on The Evening Standart in 2022.
Despite his admiration for the Portuguese legend, Martinelli does not overlook Lionel Messi. Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November 2023, Martinelli praised Messi’s exceptional talent just before facing them with the Brazilian National team.
Lionel Messi during a match with Inter Miami and Cristiano Ronaldo reacts during a game with Al Nassr.
“He is a phenomenal player, the best in the world this year again. I want to enjoy the moment of being able to play against him, being able to be in the same stadium as him…because I’ve only seen him in video games,” reported by GOAL.
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AC Milan icon Alessandro Nesta makes his stance clear in the Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate
Cristiano Ronaldo could break one more historic record ahead of retirement
At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy time and expectations. The Portuguese superstar has been in top form for Al Nassr, finishing the season as the Saudi Pro League’s leading scorer with 25 goals in 30 appearances. Despite falling short of the league title, Cristiano still reached an astonishing 936 goals in official competitions.
Because of that, the Portuguese icon stands just 64 goals away from an extraordinary milestone: 1,000 recognized goals in official matches. Pele famously scored 1,279 goals, but some of those came in unofficial or friendly games. This has caused ongoing debate, as not everyone accepts that total.
By contrast, Ronaldo could reach the mark strictly through official competitions. Still, he says the number is not his priority. But he admits that reaching it would be a great achievement.
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