Austrian goalkeeper prefers Ronaldo over Messi ahead of Argentina qualifier
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager stated he prefers Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi ahead of a World Cup qualifier against Argentina.
- Schlager later clarified his comments, acknowledging Messi's greatness while maintaining his personal preference.
- Other Austrian players expressed divided opinions on the Messi-Ronaldo debate, with some favoring Messi and others Ronaldo.
Ahead of a crucial World Cup qualifier, Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager ignited a familiar debate by declaring his preference for Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi. Facing questions about how his team would contain the Argentine star, Schlager stated, "I'm more of a Cristiano Ronaldo type." The comment, made after his team's victory over Jordan, drew laughter from reporters.
In principle, I'm more of a Cristiano Ronaldo type.
Schlager quickly sought to temper his remarks, emphasizing respect for Messi's achievements. "He is a player with many years of experience and has delivered such good performances that it would be disrespectful to say anything against him," he explained. He acknowledged Messi's "incredible presence" and his role within a strong team, expressing anticipation for the upcoming match.
He is a player with many years of experience and has delivered such good performances that it would be disrespectful to say anything against him.
The Messi-Ronaldo rivalry appears to be a topic within the entire Austrian delegation. Midfielder Xaver Schlager offered a neutral view, calling Ronaldo a "tireless worker" and Messi "a talent given by God." Konrad Laimer, however, sided with Messi, recalling conceding two goals to the Argentine during a Champions League match. Forward Michael Gregoritsch was more definitive, stating, "Since the last World Cup, it's no longer a question for me. Now I am absolutely convinced that Messi is the best footballer of all time."
He has an incredible presence, and it shows. He is also part of a team that is what it is. I'm looking forward to the match and we will try.
Other players also weighed in. Romano Schmid called Messi his idol, while Philipp Lienhart cited his past support for Real Madrid in his preference for Ronaldo, though he admitted both players' statistics are objectively unattainable for others. Coach Ralf Rangnick opted for a strategic approach, avoiding a direct comparison and noting he lacked a comparative parameter after coaching Ronaldo at Manchester United.
Ronaldo is a tireless worker and Messi is a talent given by God.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by La Nación in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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