Koeman Distances Self From Messi Vs Ronaldo Debate

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Barcelona Manager, Ronald Koeman has distanced himself from comparison between Argentine forward Lionel Messi and Portuguese star striker Cristiano Ronaldo.

Koeman, while speaking ahead of a crunch Champions league tie between Barcelona and Juventus on Tuesday said the two super stars are mercurial talents.

Ronaldo, who sat out the first leg due to contracting coronavirus, will return to face his old rival during his time at Real Madrid.

Koeman, during a pre-match press conference said the two players are the best in the game, having dominated the scene for the past 10-15 years.

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“It’s fantastic that these two players have been so long at this top level in the world.”

“They are the best players, in my opinion, in the last 10-15 years. Being successful all this time is incredible. It’s a great compliment to those players.”

“They are different, but they have incredible stats about scoring goals, hat-tricks, about winning prizes.”

“It’s not nice to say who is better because both are incredible, I admire both players because they gave us so many nice evenings with great goals, with great titles. Let’s hope we can enjoy them tomorrow night.”

The Dutch tactician also acknowledged the threats Ronaldo may pose to his Barca team if not well checked.

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“For us it is not an extra motivation because of an individual player.”

“We always thought of this as an important match with two big teams meeting. The two teams are going to fight for first position in the group.”

“It’s always important the best players are there. I think Cristiano Ronaldo is still one of the best, he always scores and always fights.”

“Because of his daily work he is still in the elite in our sport. It’s a great compliment to him. Not just any player can do that.”

“We have to defend well against him and when we have the ball that danger goes away.”

Barca tops the Group G, but both teams are already through to the round 16 of the Champions League.

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