Manchester City midfielder Rodri has sparked controversy with his comments about Cristiano Ronaldo, claiming that the Portuguese forward lacks the natural talent of Lionel Messi.
Speaking during an interview on Spanish TV program El Hormiguero on Wednesday, Rodri, who is recovering from knee surgery, shared his thoughts on the ongoing debate over the greatest football player of all time.
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He expressed strong support for Messi, while offering a critical view of Ronaldo’s abilities.
“Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time, without any doubt,” Rodri stated. “Cristiano has managed to match Messi without innate talent. But those of us who have played against them can see the difference.”
The 28-year-old midfielder elaborated on the distinct challenges of facing both football legends, highlighting that Messi’s influence on the pitch is more widespread than Ronaldo’s. “With Cristiano, we didn’t want him to step into the box because he was lethal there. But with Messi, the danger was everywhere on the pitch,” he explained.
Rodri’s comments have sparked a flurry of debate among fans, with many seeing them as a critique of Ronaldo’s natural abilities.
The Spaniard also reflected on his recent success in winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or, where he beat Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior to the title.
Recalling the build-up to the ceremony, Rodri shared, “There was a rumour three weeks prior that Vinicius was going to win, so I had no optimism going to the gala. But just before arriving in Paris, many people started congratulating me. I didn’t even have a speech prepared, but my father insisted I prepare something just in case.”
