Of course, I have affection for Leo Messi: Cristiano Ronaldo

(Courtesy : Getty Images)
CR7 and Messi are the two top stars the modern football world has ever seen.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been the top names in football for decades. Despite going away from Europe, the top superstars are well-respected and big names in the footballing industry.
Both Ronaldo and Messi have played for multiple clubs in their career. They even shared the Ballon d’Or stage for much more than a decade, mainly while playing in Spain against one another. In those peak times, Leo Messi played for FC Barcelona, and CR7 for Real Madrid. This rivalry took the football stage to another level.
Where Lionel Messi is known more for his playmaking skills, Cristiano Ronaldo is the greatest goal scorer in football history. Both of them achieved multiple trophies for the football clubs they played for. Individually, they consistently outshone every emerging talent who tried to match their level.
CR7 currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, and Leo Messi for MLS side Inter Miami. They are now performing on different continents, but their rivalry is still known by almost everyone who watches football from around the world.
In a recent interview, Ronaldo expressed his affection towards the Argentine star Messi. These football stars have gone toe-to-toe many times, but they still have a mutual respect for one another.
CR7 on Messi
During an interview, Cristiano Ronaldo opened up and said:
“Of course, I have affection for Leo Messi. We’ve been on stage together for 15 years.”
CR7 further said:
“I remember translating English for him at the Galas because he didn’t speak English well. He always treated me well and respected me.”
This response by Ronaldo sends a big message across the world that, despite competing at the top levels, they respect each other. Yes, there has always been tough competition between the two stars and due to this, they have won the hearts of many people all over the world
Cristiano Ronaldo has also hinted that he might not be playing the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2025 as he wants to focus on the Portugal national football team. The 40-year-old might renew his contract to stay in the Saudi Pro League with Al Nassr.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are all set to be at the Club World Cup.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.

Dilpreet is a dedicated football writer with a keen eye for World Football. As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision. Since joining Khel Now in 2025, he has crafted stories beyond scores, diving into tactics, culture, and emotion. With a strong background in content writing, he blends clarity with creativity, always aiming to bring the beautiful game closer to readers.
- Real Madrid vs Pachuca: Live streaming, TV channel, kick-off time & where to watch FIFA Club World Cup 2025
- FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Points table, most goals, most assists & clean sheets after match 28 River Plate vs Monterrey
- Germany U21 vs Italy U21 Preview, prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | UEFA U21 Euro 2025 quarter-final
- Denmark U21 vs France U21 Preview, prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | UEFA U21 Euro 2025 quarter-final
- Saudi Arabia vs Trinidad and Tobago Preview, prediction, lineups, betting tips and odds | Concacaf Gold Cup 2025
- Top 11 best strikers in world football right now
- Arsenal's top 10 biggest sales of all time; Robin van Persie, Anelka & more
- Manchester United's top 10 biggest sales of all time; Cristiano Ronaldo, Beckham & more
- All players to win PFA Players' Player of the Year on multiple occasions
- Know your PIO/OCI Footballer: Manprit Sarkaria