If you hate him, you hate football — Patrice Evra gives honest verdict on Messi vs Ronaldo

If you hate him, you hate football — Patrice Evra gives honest verdict on Messi vs Ronaldo

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 14:57 - 29.08.2024

Manchester United legend has shared his thoughts on the never-ending GOAT debate involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The debate over who's the greatest of all time (GOAT) in football, Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi, has been ongoing for over a decade, with opinions divided among players, fans, and coaches.

While some legends like Rio Ferdinand, Roy Keane, and Sir Alex Ferguson prefer Ronaldo, others favor Messi, who has recently gained an edge with his World Cup win, three additional Ballon d'Or awards (8) in total, and two Copa America titles.

Patrice Evra, a former teammate and close friend of Ronaldo, has openly chosen him as his preferred player. However, in a recent interview, Evra clarified that his preference for Ronaldo doesn't mean he dislikes Messi:

Patrice Evra on Messi vs Ronaldo debate

Cristiano Ronaldo is regarded as one of the greatest players ever. (Photo Credit: Imago)
Cristiano Ronaldo is regarded as one of the greatest players ever. (Photo Credit: Imago)
Ronaldo won his first Ballon d'Or in 2008 (Credit to Getty Images)

"When fans say I prefer Cristiano over Messi, they think I hate Messi.

"I believe that if someone hates Messi, they don't truly love football, but I love Messi!"

Messi finally won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022 | Imago

While both players are now in the final stages of their careers, this is a debate that is likely to continue long after they retire.

Messi recently led Argentina to Copa America triumph in the United States, while Ronaldo continues to bang in goals at his club side Al Nassr.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo is set to be honoured by UEFA for scoring the most goals in competition history.

The 39-year-old has scored 143 goals in 180 games and will be given a special award at the Champions League league phase draw ceremony in Monaco on Thursday.