The Dream Team: Ronaldo and Messi Together in MLS?

omidbasir- Fans around the globe eagerly anticipate the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who collectively hold 13 Ballon d’Or awards, teaming up before both legends retire. Their storied careers have seen them face off in international matches and during the fierce rivalry of El Clasico, which pits Barcelona against Real Madrid.

Both players continue to perform at exceptional levels; Messi recently made history in the United States by winning back-to-back MVP awards. His contributions led to a significant MLS Cup victory for South Florida last season, and he has extended his contract until 2028.

Ronaldo, now 41, is engaged in a lucrative agreement in Saudi Arabia scheduled to run until 2027. However, there is a release clause that might be activated this summer, allowing for a potential transfer.

Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen, who previously worked with Ronaldo at Old Trafford, shared insights with BetGoat regarding the viability of a remarkable partnership in the U.S. He stated, “Cristiano Ronaldo could still thrive in the MLS, without a doubt. With the right team and the right players around him, he would excel. If given the service, he’ll find the back of the net.”

On the prospect of Ronaldo playing alongside Messi at Inter Miami, Meulensteen remarked, “It would be incredible. It would create the most exciting matchups every week. Who wouldn’t want to see that? As long as the team maintains a balance that allows both Cristiano and Messi to perform at their peak, it would undoubtedly capture the world’s attention like no other football event in history.”

Meulensteen also envisioned the rekindling of the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry, suggesting Los Angeles as another possible destination for Ronaldo, given its proximity to Hollywood, which he believes would appeal to the Portuguese star.

David Beckham, now co-owner of Inter Miami, is seen as a pivotal figure in making such a high-profile transfer occur. World Cup-winning ex-MLS player Kleberson recently told GOAL, “Imagine the excitement! America would go wild! The idea of having Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and perhaps Neymar in one locker room is a dream team scenario!”

Rob Earnshaw, a former striker in the MLS, echoed the sentiment, stating, “If there were a place for this to happen, it would be at Inter Miami. Sadly, I doubt it will materialize. While fans would love to witness them play together before retirement, it seems unlikely. However, I believe David Beckham could be the one to facilitate this extraordinary event.”

Currently, Ronaldo has missed Al-Nassr’s last three matches for various reasons, including concerns over the distribution of transfer funds in the Saudi Pro League. His actions have drawn criticism, but he is expected to return to action against Al-Fateh this Saturday as he continues to pursue title success in the Middle East. The football community remains curious about how many more appearances he will make before embarking on Portugal’s World Cup campaign this summer.