Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi on the same team: Can the legends unite in the USA?

Rumors about the two biggest rivals of the last two decades, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, potentially playing for the same club in the final stages of their careers have resurfaced. Although many fans dream of seeing these two stars in the same jersey, experts and former players have mixed opinions. Specifically, the possibility of both appearing in MLS (Major League Soccer) is considered high. This is reported by Goal.com .

Former French defender Mikael Silvestre, who played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United, shared his thoughts on the topic in an interview with Goal.com. In his opinion, rather than bringing the Portuguese and Argentine stars together in one team, it would be much more interesting for football fans to see them face each other in different clubs.

A new destination for the rivalry: From Saudi Arabia to the USA

Currently playing for Al-Nassr, 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo has conquered almost every peak during his career. He is closing in on his 1000th goal and continues to record high results in the Saudi Pro League. Silvestre emphasizes that if Ronaldo can play in the Saudi league, he can succeed anywhere in the world, including the USA.

Lionel Messi, meanwhile, has already conquered America. With Inter Miami, he has won trophies such as the Leagues Cup and the Supporters' Shield. The club, led by David Beckham, has surrounded Messi with his former teammates—stars like Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. Recently, reports have also suggested that Brazilian midfielder Casemiro might join this squad.

Why can't they play on the same team?

Mikael Silvestre believes it is difficult to imagine the two great players in the same locker room. This is not because of a poor relationship, but because both are natural-born leaders. "For any coach, it makes more sense to see them in separate teams. In Messi's worldview, there can only be one leader. That is why them playing for different franchises generates more interest," says the former player.

Another former player, Giuseppe Rossi, has also expressed his opposition to the two legends joining forces. He believes the greatest rivalry in football history only retains its charm when they are on opposite sides. Nevertheless, for the MLS leadership and American television, having Ronaldo and Messi in the same league would undoubtedly bring massive marketing benefits.

For now, Cristiano Ronaldo continues his contract with Al-Nassr, but unexpected transfers can always happen in the football world. If Ronaldo heads across the ocean, it is certain to become the event of the year not only for US football but for global sports.