The rivalry between the two legends, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, is undoubtedly one of the most enthralling sagas in the history of football. Their unparalleled dominance on the pitch for over a decade has left fans spellbound, marveling at their extraordinary feats.
However, the tides have taken a sudden turn in the current year of 2023, and Ronaldo appears to have surged ahead of Messi in terms of performance. In this article, we shall explore five reasons that explicate the superior season of the Portuguese sensation over the Argentine superstar in the present year.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo Has A Better G/A Than Messi
Although Ronaldo faced a horrible start to the year, he quickly regained his momentum and displayed his exceptional form. His magnificent record of scoring 11 goals and supplying two assists in a mere nine appearances for club and country in 2023 serves as a testimony to his unrivaled talent.
Ronaldo’s direct involvement in 13 goals in nine appearances has left spectators in awe of his supreme abilities. Conversely, Messi’s performance has not matched up to Ronaldo’s standards this year. The Argentinean has only managed to net six goals and provide three assists in 14 appearances across all competitions for club and country.
Hence, Cristiano Ronaldo’s superior goals and assists record in 2023 manifest that he remains an indomitable force on the pitch.
4. PSG Fans Booed Leo Messi
Lionel Messi’s form since his return from the World Cup has been somewhat lackluster. Moreover, he has faced severe backlash from PSG fans who exhibited their resentment towards him by booing him during the recent Ligue 1 game against Rennes.
Unfortunately, this was followed by a shocking loss of 2-0 for PSG, and Messi departed the pitch in a huff. The team’s followers are evidently displeased with their UEFA Champions League performances. Some critics believe that Messi’s subpar display during their defeat to Bayern Munich in the round of 16 was a pivotal factor in their elimination.
Lionel Messi’s recent struggles and the unfavorable reaction from PSG fans are concrete indications that he is undergoing a grueling and taxing phase.
3. Al-Nassr Fans Appreciate Cristiano Ronaldo
Many experts assumed that Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al-Nassr was an indication of his impending retirement from professional football. However, the Portuguese maestro has shattered these presumptions with his brilliant performances on the pitch.
His persistent goal-scoring prowess and unwavering passion for competing at the highest level have won him the hearts of numerous fans in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, Ronaldo has made a noteworthy comeback to the Portuguese national team, where he once again demonstrated his sheer brilliance by netting two goals in their recent Euro 2024 qualifier against Liechtenstein.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s triumphant resurgence is an undeniable testimony to his ability to surmount the odds and continually perform at the pinnacle of his potential.
2. Messi’s PSG Got Eliminated From The UCL
In the grand scheme of things, winning the Champions League is the ultimate prize for any football team, especially one with as much talent and resources as PSG. But despite dominating their domestic league, PSG is yet to lay their hands on the European trophy that has eluded them for so long.
This failure to reach their primary objective greatly disappointed Messi and his teammates.
1. Messi Is Reportedly Unhappy At PSG
Lionel Messi’s contract with PSG expires this summer, and his future at the club remains uncertain. While many felt that he would extend his deal with PSG in January, the situation has since changed.
Following their Champions League exit, PSG may be reconsidering allocating a significant part of their resources towards servicing Messi’s high wages instead of building towards the future. Cristiano Ronaldo, on the other hand, has already made the switch to Al-Nassr and is doing well for himself in his new environment.
The uncertainty surrounding Messi’s future is yet another indication of the turbulent period he is currently navigating.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this analysis of the Ronaldo-Messi saga, it’s worth noting that the 2023 chapter seems to favor Ronaldo. The Portuguese legend has been making waves with his recent performances, while Messi has been struggling to find his footing.
The reception of fans towards the two players tells a different story altogether. While Ronaldo has been warmly welcomed by his new fans in Saudi Arabia, Messi has been jeered by PSG fans.
Furthermore, PSG’s Champions League exit dealt a major blow to Messi’s aspirations of winning the coveted trophy. And to top it off, Messi’s contract with PSG expires soon, leaving his future at the club up in the air.
Nevertheless, we must not forget that this is a rivalry that has seen numerous twists and turns. It wouldn’t be surprising if Messi, who is known for his resilience, bounces back stronger. In the end, both players are still in the race for greatness, and we can expect them to continue pushing each other to new heights.
