Rodri, who is recovering from knee surgery, made the statement during an interview with Spanish TV program El Hormiguero on Wednesday.
Rodri, the world-famous Manchester City midfielder, has stirred controversy in football circles with his remarks about Cristiano Ronaldo, claiming the Portuguese star lacks innate talent compared to Lionel Messi.
Rodri, who is recovering from knee surgery, made the statement during an interview with Spanish TV program El Hormiguero on Wednesday.
Reflecting on the debate over who is the greatest player of all time, the Spaniard sided firmly with Messi while offering a pointed critique of Ronaldo’s abilities.
He said, “Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time, without any doubt.
“Cristiano has managed to match Messi without innate talent. But those of us who have played against them can see the difference.”
The midfielder described the contrasting challenges of facing the two football icons, emphasising that Messi posed a far more pervasive threat on the pitch.
He said, “With Cristiano, we didn’t want him to step into the box because he was lethal there.
“But with Messi, the danger was everywhere on the pitch.”
The Spaniard’s comments have sparked widespread debate among fans, with many interpreting his remarks as a dismissal of Ronaldo’s natural abilities.
Rodri also used the platform to reflect on winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or last month, beating Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior to the coveted title.
Recounting, Rodri said, “There was a rumour three weeks prior that Vinicius was going to win, so I had no optimism going to the gala.
“But just before arriving in Paris, many people started congratulating me. I didn’t even have a speech prepared, but my father insisted I prepare something just in case.”
