Lionel Messi lauds Cristiano Ronaldo; opens up on childhood Christmas wish

Juventus superstar Cristia Ronaldo and Barcelona icon Lionel Messi have been on top of ir game for more than a dece, competing for both collective and individual accoles. Most recently, two football greats came up against each or at Camp u, with Portuguese international standing out as best player on field. w, six-time Ballon d'Or winner has heaped massive praise on Ronaldo. 

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Lionel Messi interview: Argentine lauds Ronaldo as a standout performer

Messi, during an interaction with LaSexta, has put Ronaldo at par with some of present-day athletes across sports. "re are many mirable athletes. Rafa Nal, Federer, LeBron - in all sports re is always someone who stands out and is mirable for his work." He went on to assert that former Real Mrid man stands out in football. 

In an earlier interview, Ronaldo h claimed that he and Messi push each or to improve on field, though Messi's comments did t appear to be in consonance with Portuguese's claims. Messi also insisted that his children are still biggest source of inspiration for him.

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Messi transfer news: Barcelona captain speaks on life in Catalunya  

Messi has been linked with a move away from Camp u at end of current season. He was keen on an exit previous summer, but n-Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu forced him to fulfil his contract. Apologising for same, Messi claimed that Barcelona is his life, insisting that he has been in city since of thirteen. 

He went on to give a brief insight on his future plans once his contract expires at end of current season. "Well, truth is that today I'm fine, it's true that I h a very b time over  summer because of how season ended," ded 33-year-old Argentina international. 

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Reunion with Messi family: 33-year-old's biggest Christmas wish stays unfulfilled 

Messi was asked about his favourite Christmas gift as a kid. Barcelona captain reveals, "I remember getting an official match ball ...it was expensive but my folks me a major effort and I also remember getting a Newell's shirt which was special." Messi asserted he wanted to return to Argentina to celebrate Christmas but coronavirus pandemic has played spoiler. 

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Im courtesy: AP