Paul Pogba, the newly signed AS Monaco midfielder, expressed his opinion on the ongoing Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo debate, calling for an end to comparing the two football legends. In a 2024 interview with popular Twitch streamer iShowSpeed, Pogba emphasized that both players serve distinct roles on the field, making direct comparisons pointless.
When asked who he preferred between Messi and Ronaldo, Pogba explained his view (via Inter Miami News):
“For me, there is no Ronaldo vs. Messi, let’s stop this ——-. Who do I prefer? If I’m making a team and need to score goals, I would take Cristiano, but only score goals. But if I need a playmaker who can score goals and make assists, I would take Messi every day.”
Lionel Messi is renowned for his creative playmaking skills, which enable him to dismantle well-organized defenses with his passing and vision. On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo is celebrated for his outstanding goal-scoring ability and efficiency in front of goal. This distinction highlights why Pogba believes comparing them directly is unnecessary.
The rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo intensified when Ronaldo joined Real Madrid, Barcelona’s longtime rival, in 2009. Between 2009 and 2018, they continuously vied for major club trophies in LaLiga and international competitions, while also dominating individual awards contests.
Over his club career, Ronaldo has scored 794 goals in 1,054 appearances, while Messi has netted 760 goals in fewer games, totaling 937 appearances. When it comes to assists, Messi leads significantly with 363 compared to Ronaldo’s 242, underscoring his dual role as a scorer and creator.
Rio Ferdinand’s Perspective on Lamine Yamal Compared to Messi and Ronaldo at 17
Former Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand shared his opinion on Barcelona’s young talent Lamine Yamal, stating that the teenager is already ahead of both Messi and Ronaldo at the same age. During a TNT Sports discussion earlier this year, Ferdinand highlighted Yamal’s early achievements and impact on the game.
He remarked (via GOAL):
“At this age, he’s ahead of Cristiano, he’s ahead of Messi. His stats alone – he’s had 100 appearances at 17! These guys were nowhere near that and he’s dominating games, he’s defining games.”
Since becoming a first-team regular at Barcelona, Yamal has significantly influenced the team’s attacking play. In 106 matches, he has contributed 25 goals and 34 assists, demonstrating his ability to shape games despite his young age.
The insight from Pogba and Ferdinand reflects a broader understanding that football greatness can manifest in different ways, with each player bringing unique qualities to the sport. The Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo debate continues to spark discussions, but voices like Pogba’s encourage appreciation for their distinctive talents rather than futile comparisons.