Cristiano Ronaldo (L) and Lionel Messi (C) during the Juventus vs Barcelona match at Camp Nou Stadium, Barcelona, Spain, in the Champions League group stage on Dec. 8, 2020. Photo by Reuters |
Speaking in an interview with American streamer and YouTuber IShowSpeed over the weekend, Infantino said Ronaldo is in discussions with several clubs expected to compete in the tournament.
“There are discussions with some clubs, so if any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup… who knows, who knows. Still a few weeks’ time, will be fun,” Infantino said on stream.
When asked whether he prefers Ronaldo or Messi, Infantino responded: “Two great players. Two incredible players. If you’re Portuguese, you’re for Ronaldo. If you’re Argentinian, you’re for Messi. If you’re a football fan, you’d love to see them both because it’s just a great game. I’d love to see them play together. Imagine them both in the same team – wouldn’t that be something special?”
Under current FIFA rules, Inter Miami could technically borrow Ronaldo for the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13 in the U.S. Player registration for the competition opens on June 1. Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr expires on June 30, although his final match for the club was on May 26.
When asked if Inter Miami might sign Ronaldo, Infantino laughed and replied: “It’s possible.”
Inter Miami will participate in the Club World Cup as a host nation wildcard. Al Nassr, however, have not qualified.
According to DAILY ASRonaldo is currently in talks with around 10 clubs interested in bringing him in for the tournament, though none are based in Europe or the U.S.
Across their long rivalry, Messi and Ronaldo have faced off 37 times, including friendlies. Messi’s teams have won 17 matches, drawn 9 and lost 11. Both players have scored 23 goals in those meetings. However, the two global icons have never played on the same team.
With both stars nearing the end of their careers, the 2025 Club World Cup could offer fans a final opportunity to witness them on the pitch together, if Inter Miami make a move. So far, however, the club have made no official approach to the Portuguese superstar.