Messi Ignites Controversy by Snubbing Ronaldo in Top 5 Picks – Sparks Fresh Rivalry Debate!

Messi vs Ronaldo: A Rivalry That Never Dies

For nearly two decades, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have defined an era of football like no other. With 12 Ballon d’Ors between them, countless broken records, and a rivalry that pushed both to unimaginable heights, they’ve not just competed—they’ve reshaped modern football.

But even as the twilight of their careers draws closer, the GOAT debate continues to evolve, and Messi’s recent comments have poured fuel on that eternal fire.

Messi’s Statement on Lamine Yamal – A Hint at the Future?

Messi, known for his calm demeanor, reserved special praise for 17-year-old Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal:

“It’s impressive what Lamine Yamal is doing. He’s already a European champion with Spain. At just 17, he’s growing fast and will continue contributing, just as I did.”

He didn’t stop there:

“He has incredible quality and is already one of the best players in the world.”

Such high praise from one of football’s greatest icons signals that Messi sees Yamal as a future global superstar, and possibly, Barcelona’s next face.

The Controversy: Messi Leaves Ronaldo Out of His Top 5

In a candid interview with Simplemente Fútbol, Messi was asked to name five current footballers that kids should look up to. His answer? A list that left many stunned:

• Lamine Yamal
• Kylian Mbappe
• Vinicius Jr.
• Robert Lewandowski
• Erling Haaland

Notice anything missing? That’s right—Cristiano Ronaldo’s name was nowhere to be found.

Messi on 2026 FIFA World Cup – Will He Play?

In the same interview, Messi also addressed his plans for the 2026 World Cup:

“If you think about it, it’s a long way off, but at the same time, it goes by so fast… This year is important—playing consistently, feeling good. Last year I had injuries. This year, I had a good preseason, I started well, and I feel good.”

While he didn’t confirm his participation, the tone suggests that Messi is keeping the door open. For fans of Argentina, this comes as a glimmer of hope that the legend might return to defend the crown in North America.

Ronaldo’s Omission: Oversight or Intentional Snub?

While Messi never explicitly criticized Ronaldo, his omission has sparked wild reactions. After all, Ronaldo isn’t just another player—he’s his long-time rival and arguably the biggest brand in football.

Fans on X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms didn’t take it lightly:

• “How can Messi forget Ronaldo? They built an era together!”
• “This proves Messi always saw Ronaldo as just a competitor, not an inspiration.”
• “Messi is trying to erase CR7 from football history.”

Whether intentional or not, the snub has reignited the Messi vs Ronaldo debate in spectacular fashion.