Messi and Ronaldo relationship clarified: “We were never friends but the respect was always there”

Messi’s most candid words after years of speculation

Lionel Messi has finally spoken with clarity about his long-standing rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, one that divided the football world for years. The Argentine star emphasised that their relationship never evolved into a friendship, but he still holds great respect for Ronaldo and has always admired his career.

Same stage, different worlds

Messi and Ronaldo rarely crossed paths off the pitch. Living in different countries, playing for different clubs and surrounded by different social circles, the two superstars only encountered each other a handful of times at awards ceremonies throughout their careers. According to Messi, this lack of interaction explains the absence of a close friendship:

“We were never friends because our lives never crossed paths. We never had the opportunity to spend time together.”

Clashing at the summit of La Liga

But their battles on the pitch were of a completely different nature. Between 2009 and 2018, during their La Liga days, each El Clásico featuring Barcelona captain Messi and Real Madrid’s Ronaldo created massive excitement. The goals they scored, the records they shattered, and the weight they carried for their clubs fuelled a rivalry unlike any other in football history. During this period, Messi won 8 Ballon d’Or titles while Ronaldo claimed the award five times. Their competition extended far beyond individual honours, covering major trophies like the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey.

“The rivalry stayed on the pitch”

In an interview with DSports, Messi said:

“Cristiano and I were never friends because we never had a social connection, never shared the same circles. But I have great respect for what he’s achieved, for his career, and for the fact that he’s still competing at the highest level. The rivalry stayed on the pitch; there was never any personal tension.”

Ronaldo: “There was never any problem between us”

Ronaldo had shared similar sentiments earlier. In a statement made in early 2024, the Portuguese icon said he never had a bad relationship with Messi. On the contrary, he explained that a mutual respect had always existed between them.

Club World Cup reunion never materialised

The possibility of a final Messi–Ronaldo showdown resurfaced ahead of the 2025 Club World Cup. Reports suggested Ronaldo might sign a short-term deal with a participating club. However, that scenario never came to pass. On 7 June 2025, Ronaldo told Reuters in no uncertain terms that he would not feature in the tournament. While he confirmed having received invitations, he made it clear that his priority was the Portuguese national team and he had no plans to take part in the Club World Cup.

Still leaving their mark on the pitch

Thus, the last hope of seeing a final Messi vs Ronaldo duel faded. Only Messi featured in the tournament, representing Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar continued to produce at a high level, scoring 16 goals and delivering 6 assists in 22 appearances for his club this season. Meanwhile, Ronaldo—despite his age—remained remarkably effective, scoring 35 goals and adding 4 assists in 41 matches for Al Nassr.

Two legends, one era

Though both players are now in the twilight of their careers, their influence on the pitch and their global impact remain immense. They may never have become close friends, but the value they brought to football and their years-long rivalry have cemented their place not just as adversaries, but as two of the greatest players the game has ever seen.