Former Real Madrid winger delivers verdict on Ronaldo vs Messi debate – ‘One tries hard and the other…’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid winger Angel Di Maria, who shared the pitch with Cristiano Ronaldo for four years and has played also alongside Lionel Messi for nearly two decades, has made his stance clear in the long-running debate about who is the better footballer.

It must be noted that recently, Ronaldo openly declared himself as the greatest player in history, a statement that did not come as a surprise to the Argentine winger.

He believes the Portuguese star has always had the confidence to make such claims and the determination to position himself as the best. However, when comparing achievements, Di Maria sees a clear distinction between the two legendary players.

“I’m not surprised, he was always like that, to make those statements, to want to impose what he wants to be, what he always tried to be: to be the best,” he began saying.

Settling the debate

For him, Ronaldo was born in a generation where he had to compete with a footballer who possessed extraordinary talent from the very beginning.

“Cristiano was born in a generation in which the other one, who was touched by a wand [referring to Messi], was born. Cristiano is here and the Mess is here, that’s the reality,”

Di Maria says Cristiano Ronalo works very hard. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While Ronaldo has undeniably worked tirelessly throughout his career, Messi has displayed a natural ability that sets him apart.

The difference is evident in their records. Messi has won eight Ballon d’Or trophies, whereas Ronaldo has five, a gap that highlights the contrast between them.

“One has eight Ballon d’Or and the other has five and it’s a very big difference. Having been a world champion is a very big difference. One has two Copa America Cups and the other one a Euro Cup, there is a big difference,” he noted.

Beyond the trophies, Di Maria suggests that the way both players approach the game also sets them apart.

While Ronaldo is known for his relentless drive and dedication, Messi plays with an effortless style, making football look like second nature to him. In every match, every moment on the pitch, this difference is visible.

“There are many differences. You see it in the matches, in every minute. One tries and tries hard in everything and the other plays as if he were in his own backyard,” he explained.