"He’s a fantastic player to see" - When former Manchester United star picks Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo

Former Manchester United forward Henrik Larsson once picked Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo in the GOAT debate. The Swedish international explained that the Portuguese superstar is unlucky to compete in the same era as his Argentine counterpart.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's intense rivalry has split the football world as fellow players, pundits and spectators continue to pick sides in this never-ending debate about who is the GOAT.

Henrik Larsson joined a host of other notable figures in the sport in revealing whose side he belongs to in the face-off a couple of years ago. The former Manchester United star cast his vote for none other than the mercurial Argentine.

“Cristiano is unlucky to be playing at the same time as Messi,' he said in quotes conveyed by GiveMeSport. "Ronaldo is a very good player but Messi is even better. He is out of this world. He’s so good that it’s almost incredible."

“When you see him with the ball at his feet, it’s hard to believe that anybody else could do the same. He’s a fantastic player to see,” added the Swedish icon.

Henrik Larsson is indeed in a good position to comment on this rivalry. He had the privilege to play alongside the two players during his illustrious career and was able to witness their abilities up close.

The forward represented Barcelona between 2004 and 2006 where he saw a young Lionel Messi break through the ranks to establish himself as a vital cog in the senior team. The 52-year-old also had a short loan stint at Manchester United between January and March 2007, playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.

What next for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo after Copa America/Euros 2024?

The two superstars didn't have the best of outings with their respective countries in their continental tournaments this summer. Lionel Messi bagged just one goal and one assist in the Copa America but came out on top as Argentina won the tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo managed just one assist at the Euros and couldn't help Portugal avoid a quarter-final exit. Following that setback, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has returned to action with Al Nassr determined to put the disappointment behind him. He marked his return with a goal against Al Taawoun in the Saudi Super Cup semifinals last week.

Messi is yet to get back to action after picking up an ankle injury at the Copa America. There's no clarity about his potential return but he's expected to be back to leading Inter Miami's attack as soon as he regains fitness.