Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi admitted he and Cristiano Ronaldo are not close friends but emphasized their mutual respect and professional relationship.
Messi, during his DSports interview, clarified that their competitive dynamic was strictly limited to matches, where each fought for their team’s success.
The duo famously faced off in El Clásico clashes between Barcelona and Real Madrid during their time in Spain.
Now, Ronaldo plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, while Messi competes in Major League Soccer.
“Our rivalry was purely on the pitch,” Messi said.
“Everything stayed within the game. Outside of football, we’re just regular people.
“We aren’t friends and don’t socialize, but we’ve always maintained a respectful connection,” he added.
