Lionel Messi’s rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo is one that has worn on for years.
When it comes to choosing between the two greats – opinion is often split.
For example, Eden Hazard believes Lionel Messi is the GOAT, meanwhile, USMNT star Weston McKennie ranks Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest.
With many fans divided in their thoughts, one soccer organization has recently honed in with their opinion amid recent criticism.
Ligue 1 backs Lionel Messi in savage Cristiano Ronaldo dig
While playing for Paris Saint Germain in France, Messi lit up Ligue 1 alongside the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, catapulting the league’s worldwide status.
With all three of those stars now having departed France – Ligue 1 has recently come under criticism from a certain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking at the Dubai’s Globe Soccer Awards, the former Man United man said:
“Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished”.
“Try to sprint in 38, 39, 40 degree weather and see…”.
Ligue 1 have since hit back at Ronaldo’s claims via X (formerly Twitter) – highlighting the fact Messi won the World Cup playing in similar weather.
“Leo Messi playing in 38 degrees”
Lionel Messi rejected Saudi Arabia move in favor of MLS
Following the Argentine’s departure from Paris in 2023, there were unsurprisingly several clubs circling for his signature – including some in Saudi Arabia.
Having already snapped up names like Neyamr and Karim Benzema, the Saudi Pro League was keen to add Messi to their esteemed list of players.
Al-Ittihad were reportedly one of the clubs interested, with their president Anmar Al Haili revealing how much they offered Messi to join.
“We actually contacted Messi at the end of his contract in Paris. We presented him with an offer of €1.4 billion, but the player refused because his family wanted America. It is surprising that the player was able to refuse such a huge offer for the sake of his family.
“He managed to convince his family, but he did not hesitate to refuse. We respect this, because family is more important than money.”