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“He Couldn’t Do What Messi Did” – Cristiano Ronaldo’s Struggles Against Lionel Messi Laid Bare by Premier League Legend

Published Oct 15, 2023 | 7:01 AM EDT

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Is it Cristiano Ronaldo? Or is it Lionel Messi? Who’s the ‘GOAT’ in soccer? – This question sparks a debate in every conversation it’s introduced. Now, a former Premier League legend-turned-pundit is making bold revelations about the Al Nassr star – drawing from his experience covering the duo during their La Liga days.

After setting the stage with a staggering 9-year-long La Liga rivalry, Ronaldo and Messi’s soccer legacy still invokes passion among soccer fans to this day. So, how has this Chelsea legend stirred the pot with his statement on this never-ending debate?

Chelsea legend makes bold remarks about Cristiano Ronaldo

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Scott Minto, the former Chelsea left-back, recently joined the talkSPORT podcast for a discussion. For those of you who aren’t up to speed – Minto played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s 1997 FA Cup Final win over Middlesbrough. As the discussion progressed, the 52-year-old recounted, “I covered Ronaldo and Messi for four years – every single La Liga match. So, I was paid to watch them and it was a pleasure!”

Drawing from this experience, he made a bold statement on the Al-Nassr star. He divulged, “Ronaldo – to keep up with Messi, realized that he couldn’t do what Messi did. So, he[Ronaldo] became a box player.” This points out that Ronaldo’s career trajectory was marked by adaptability.

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Moreover, he admitted that the Portuguese star recognized the need to revamp his playing style. All of this – just to compete with Messi, who was outshining him in La Liga. But that’s not all! Minto also shed light on what may have led to Ronaldo’s move to Real Madrid – despite his massive fanbase at Manchester United.

Read More: Challenged to Break 900 Goal Mark, Al Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Silence on Record-Breaking Feat After Portugal Win

Did Messi motivate the former Manchester United star to move to Real Madrid?

Extending his POV further, Minto suggested that Ronaldo, in his early days at Manchester United, may have exhibited superior soccer abilities. However, when the Portuguese soccer protégé made his monumental move to Real Madrid, his focus changed. 

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Backing his argument, the Chelsea veteran explained, “I actually think that Ronaldo was a better footballer – first time round at [Manchester] United. But, he went to Real Madrid and realized that to keep up with Messi – he needs to score [more] goals.”

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Minto’s commentary delves deep into the psyche of these two soccer icons – unraveled through years of meticulous observation. The Premier League legend’s statements offer an intriguing glimpse into the dynamic world of elite soccer. It goes on to underscore the ceaseless drive of legends like Cristiano Ronaldo to adapt, evolve, and pursue greatness.

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In the ongoing debate over who reigns as the GOAT, Minto’s insights provide a fresh perspective and underscore the relentless spirit of Cristiano Ronaldo in the face of Lionel Messi’s unrivaled brilliance. What do you think? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 

Watch this story: Max Verstappen joins Lionel Messi in creating special historic feat

Written by:

Ashish Tiwari

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Ashish is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. With an unwavering love for the sport, he immerses himself in the thrilling world of MMA, capturing the essence of each high-octane fight and delving into the intricacies of a fighter's strategy. His in-depth knowledge and analytical approach enable him to provide unique insights into the sport.
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Edited by:

Daniel D'Cruz