CR7 discusses his relationship with Lionel Messi in detail

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been at the center of football’s most intense rivalry for years. Although they have been on opposing sides during their careers, the Portuguese icon has disclosed that their relationship has always been based on respect for one another.

In an interview with La Sexta, Ronaldo discussed his feelings about Messi while denying that they were at odds.

Messi and I have never had a strained relationship; on the contrary, we have always gotten along great. I’ve always been treated with respect by him. He protected his club and his country, and I did the same. Like Senna and Prost, there was a good rivalry, and we encouraged one another to improve. Although such a duel is uncommon, the Al-Nassr attacker expressed his hope that football may see more in the future.