When asked whether he would rather play with Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi, Kevin De Bruyne responded calmly
Kevin De Bruyne is one of the finest players of his time, and the Manchester City midfielder explained why he would benefit more from collaborating with Ronaldo, believing that Messi would operate in a similar space as a “playmaker” to him.
The Belgium international has faced both players at club and international levels and has stated that he would like to play with the former Manchester United superstar because he is more of a “typical striker.”
“I would probably say Ronaldo because he’s more of a typical striker,” De Bruyne stated.
“Messi is still more of a playmaker.
“I am a playmaker, you can give me a striker.”
The Belgian footballer thrived on having a focal point to play off of, and he caused havoc playing with Erling Haaland, who scored 52 goals in his rookie season at Manchester City.
Messi and Ronaldo have dominated football for over 15 years, scoring an absurd number of goals and winning 79 championships and 12 Ballon d’Ors between them.
Their rivalry was constructive since it pushed one other to improve, but now that they are no longer playing in Europe in their last years, Ronaldo believes their conflict is over.
“I don’t see things like that, the rivalry is gone,” Ronaldo said in a recent press conference.
“It was good, spectators liked it. Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don’t have to hate Messi and vice versa. We’ve done well, we have changed the history of football. We are respected all over the world, that’s the most important thing.
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“He’s followed his path and I have followed mine, regardless of playing outside of Europe.
“From what I’ve seen, he’s been doing well and so have I. The legacy lives on, but I don’t see the rivalry like that. We shared the stage many times, it was 15 years. I’m not saying we’re friends, I’ve never had dinner with him, but we’re professional colleagues and we respect each other.”
