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After their back and forth in recent years, Wayne Rooney has finally opened up about his real feelings towards Cristiano Ronaldo
Wayne Rooney has finally opened up about his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, addressing years of debate surrounding his preference for Lionel Messi in the GOAT conversation.
The Manchester United legend insists his admiration for Ronaldo has never wavered, despite past criticisms.
From teammates to tension
Rooney and Ronaldo shared five trophy-laden years at Old Trafford, forming one of the Premier League’s most feared partnerships before the Portuguese star left for Real Madrid.
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19:46 - 17.03.2025
Ronaldo or Messi: Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney picks the best
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has weighed in on the everlasting GOAT debate
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14:36 - 30.05.2024
He has more flair — Wayne Rooney finally picks GOAT between Messi and Ronaldo
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has finally shared his thoughts on the GOAT debate involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
According to the Englishman, even Ronaldo’s part in Rooney’s infamous red card at the 2006 World Cup wasn’t enough to dent their friendship.
However, cracks began to show in 2022 when Rooney described Ronaldo’s refusal to come on against Tottenham as an “unwelcome distraction,” a remark that came shortly before the Portuguese star’s dramatic Old Trafford exit.
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Ronaldo retaliated in his explosive interview with Piers Morgan, suggesting Rooney was jealous and mocking his appearance.
The fallout, combined with Rooney’s open support for Messi in the never-ending debate, fuelled talk of bitterness between the two icons.
Rooney’s heartfelt praise for Ronaldo
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Rooney moved to set the record straight, declaring he has nothing but love for his old teammate.
“People think I hate him. I love him! I think he’s an absolute genius; what he’s doing is incredible,” the 39-year-old explained.
Rooney even admitted that Ronaldo’s relentless consistency in Saudi Arabia could tilt the debate in his favour when history looks back.
While Rooney still prefers Messi’s flair and creativity, he hailed Ronaldo as “a killer” and “an absolute genius” who deserves immense respect.
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Far from rivalry, Rooney described their time together at Manchester United as a period filled with camaraderie, pranks, and shared ambition, making it clear that his Messi preference does not equal Ronaldo disdain.