Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi made a memorable mark in their career, scoring over 800 goals to date. Yet, Nicolas Anelka, the Chelsea icon, stirs controversy with his remark on these legends, claiming the players to have a detrimental influence on the modern soccer world.

Meanwhile, Messi and Ronaldo altered their trajectory with a new chapter in their illustrious career. CR7 opted to move to Al Nassr, while La Pulga signed a 2-and-a-half-year deal with Inter Miami in MLS. The soccer icons continue to deliver top-notch performances by showcasing their class in the twilight years of their career. Yet, Anelka raised some eyebrows with his remarks. 

What did Nikolas Anelka have to say about Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi?

Nicolas Anelka underscored the significance of number 9 in the squad, which took a hit during CR7 and Messi’s era. Fans mostly recognized the strikers donning this shirt number for their finishing abilities in the attacking third. However, the veterans redirected the entire limelight from the number 9 during the prime days of their careers.

Cristiano Ronaldo and La Pulga revolutionized the wing position, as they made an impact going forward, scoring goals for fun. On this note, Anelka highlighted how this influenced the mindset of the other stars in this era.

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The PSG legend remarked, “Today, to find a number 9 there are fewer and fewer. The new generation was robbed by Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi. And Messi and Ronaldo are two offensive players, but not number 9 attackers. All the young people identified with Ronaldo and Messi wanted to start playing either on the left or the right.”

Soccer stars like Erling Haaland, Robert Lewandowski, Karim Benzema, Luis Suarez, and a lot more, nonetheless, continue to leave a notable mark as a striker wearing the number 9 jersey. Meanwhile, La Pulga and Ronaldo were rumored to play each other for the final time in their career. However, things look bleak for the grand reunion!

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The ‘last dance’ between the GOATS hangs in balance

Riyadh Cup 2024 is a Saudi Government initiative to promote sports and entertainment. Fans initially rumored Al Nassr and Inter Miami to participate in this tournament. Consequently, it meant Messi and Ronaldo would meet for the last time as arch-rivals during its fixture planned in February.

The Herons issued a statement refuting the claim of their participation in the Riyadh Cup. Moreover, they still have their preseason fixtures to be planned. However, Inter Miami has deleted the post in recent days. It ignited a mere hope among the fans of this epic battle when Lionel Messi and Ronaldo graced the stage for the ultimate time against each other.

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