Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo: Lionel Messi May Be Better Than Me, But Jose Mourinho Will Help Inter Beat Barcelona
Ronaldo says Messi is arguably the best and that Inter could beat Barcelona tomorrow...
Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has conceded defeat to Lionel Messi in the battle as to who is the world's greatest player, but he says it's only because Barcelona are a stronger unit.
Responding in an interview he gave to Italian newspaper La Stampa on whether Messi is currently the best, Ronaldo said: "Maybe, yes. But honestly, Barcelona are playing in a fantastic way. They have won the last five or six trophies and are top of La Liga.
"Messi was great last year and he is great this year too, but the team is helping him. And now he knows his team-mates better."
Despite Messi's stellar season, Ronaldo feels he will soon step out of the Blaugrana hitman's shadows and help the Merengues win the title.
"I think I am always at a top level. If Madrid risks not winning anything, it doesn't mean I am playing badly. I am always working hard every day to improve myself. I think Real Madrid can do it in the league. It's my first year here and we can give more as a group, but I cannot complain individually," he added.
Fellow Portuguese Jose Mourinho has been linked with the Real job for next season, but Ronaldo took a cautious approach with regards the Inter coach.
"Ah, it's a question everyone is talking about. Many names have been mentioned. I know Mourinho well and I can say he is a fantastic coach," he added.
"For now my coach is Manuel Pellegrini though and I am happy with this."
Sticking with the Inter theme, Ronaldo spoke about the Nerazzurri's Champions League semi-final showdown against Barcelona tomorrow.
"It will be a tough match between two teams who are playing really well. The best will win. I expect Mourinho to use a top tactic and beat Barcelona."