The Future of Football’s Legends: Ronaldo and Messi’s Next Steps

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are now in the twilight of their illustrious careers, surprising many who did not expect them to remain at the top for so long since their debut in the 2000s. The former stars of Real Madrid and Manchester United have frequently discussed the prospect of retirement, with Ronaldo indicating that his departure from the sport is imminent, while Messi, at age 38, has taken a more ambiguous stance.

In November, Ronaldo remarked on his impending retirement, stating, “Soon. But I think I will be prepared. It will be tough, of course. It will be difficult? Yes. Probably I will cry, yes… I’m an open person. It will be very, very difficult, yes. But Piers [Morgan], I prepare my future since the age of 25, 26, 27 years old; I prepare for my future. So I think I will be capable to support that pressure.”

Two months earlier, Messi hinted he may not participate in the 2026 World Cup as Argentina aims to defend their title. “I said it at the time. I don’t think I’ll play in another World Cup. Due to my age, it’s logical that I won’t make it, but we’re there, and I’m excited. I’m taking it day by day, feeling the sensations. And what’s clear is that today was the last game here,” he disclosed.

Nevertheless, Messi recently signed a new contract with Inter Miami that runs through the end of the 2028 season, suggesting that he may not be ready to retire just yet.

The longstanding rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo has seen them compete fiercely for the highest honors, both for their teams and individually. They dominated the Ballon d’Or award, accumulating 11 titles between them. Despite their intense competition, there has always been a mutual respect.

Previously, Messi acknowledged Ronaldo’s prowess: “We try to achieve the best every year for our team, and what is said outside of that I don’t think is very important. He is a phenomenal player with a lot of quality. The world knows that, and that is why he is one of the best.”

In turn, Ronaldo expressed his fondness for Messi, stating, “Of course I have affection for Leo Messi. We’ve been on stage together for 15 years. I remember translating English for him at the Galas because he didn’t speak English well. He always treated me well and respected me.”

Recently, reports from the Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo suggest that Ronaldo has instructed his agents to explore the possibility of joining Inter Miami, putting aside their rivalry. He is reportedly willing to accept a significantly lower salary than his current contract at Al-Nassr, which exceeds £3 million per week. The publication outlines several reasons for Ronaldo’s interest in transitioning to Miami, including dissatisfaction with his current situation in Saudi Arabia and the appeal of the city’s climate for his skin condition.

Additionally, it is suggested that Ronaldo’s desire to maintain his physical fitness and enhance his public persona aligns with a move to Miami. He is also rumored to be interested in pursuing a career in cinema, potentially appearing in the latest Terminator film. Furthermore, Ronaldo aims to break more football records, knowing Messi remains a formidable competitor for individual accolades. Playing alongside Messi could strategically benefit him, enabling him to benefit from Messi’s assists while covertly claiming set-piece opportunities.

However, it is important to note that skepticism surrounds this narrative, as it was published on December 28, a date akin to April Fool’s Day in Spain, potentially indicating a hoax. Moreover, the article’s author, Ricardo Tubbs, is a fictional character from the Miami Vice television series, suggesting that a collaboration between Ronaldo and Messi remains unlikely.

Meanwhile, as Messi enjoys a well-deserved off-season after leading Miami to their first MLS Cup, Ronaldo is focused on ending the year positively, with his table-topping Al-Nassr squad preparing to face Al-Ittifaq in the Saudi league.