Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi: Real Madrid legend Modric answers football’s greatest question

For Luka Modrić, choosing between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi is a dilemma he would rather avoid.

Having shared the pitch with one and battled the other for years, the Real Madrid legend believes both icons deserve admiration rather than comparison.

Speaking in a recent interview with Corriere della Sera, Modrić admitted the question of who is better between Ronaldo and Messi is one he dislikes, given the impact both players have had on football.

However, the Croatian midfielder acknowledged a personal connection with Ronaldo due to their time together at Real Madrid.

“It’s a question I don’t like. They marked an era,” Modrić said. “I am more attached to Cristiano because I played with him, he was my partner at Madrid, and I assure you that he is not only a great footballer; he is an incredible person.”

Modrić went on to highlight Ronaldo’s character off the pitch, describing the Portuguese superstar as generous and grounded. “People don’t know it, but he has a huge heart, always ready to help others. And he’s a simple, normal man,” he added.

While his closeness to Ronaldo is clear, Modrić was equally respectful when discussing Lionel Messi, whom he faced numerous times during their respective peaks in Spain and Europe. The 40-year-old was careful not to diminish the Argentine’s brilliance.

“As a man, I don’t know him, but I do not doubt that he is also extraordinary. As a player, magnificent,” Modrić said.

Between them, Messi and Ronaldo have won a combined 13 Ballon d’Or awards, underlining their dominance over modern football.

Messi has added a World Cup to his legacy with Argentina, while Ronaldo continues to chase the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals.

Rather than crown a single winner, Modrić’s answer reflects a sentiment shared by many fans: football was fortunate to witness two all-time greats define the same era, each in their own unique way.