Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has opened up about his relationship with longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo, making it clear that while the pair are not friends, there is mutual respect between them.
Speaking in an interview with DSsports, Messi stated that their rivalry existed solely on the pitch, particularly during their time facing off in Spains El Clasico, with Messi at Barcelona and Ronaldo at Real Madrid.
I have a lot of respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo and for the career hes had and continues to have, because hes still competing at the highest level.
The competition with him was on the pitch. Each of us wanted to do the best for our team. Obviously, as always, everything stayed on the field.
Off the pitch, we are two normal people. Were not friends obviously because we dont spend time together, but weve always treated each other with a lot of respect.
