Messi and Ronaldo have been rivals for over 15 years as the GOAT debate rages on, a title that has swung in the ex-Barcelona man’s favour in recent years.

Ronaldo, now of Al Nassr continues to score at an alarming rate, showing no signs of slowing down at age 38, while Messi led Argentina to World Cup triumph in December and was awarded the Ballon d’Or in October, for the record-extending 8th time.

Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on relationship with Messi

When asked about his relationship with Messi, Ronaldo said, via Ojogo :

“It was a good rivalry. It was claimed that Cristiano hates Messi and vice versa but that is not true.

“Together, We have changed the history of football.

“The legacy continues and we shared the stage for 15 years so the respect is there.. I’m not saying that we are friends, I never chatted with him, but I respect him.”

Ronaldo has been in brilliant form, scoring 15 goals and contributing 7 assists in just 14 games for Al Nassr this season.