Alex Iwobi Ranks Messi Higher Than Ronaldo After Playing Against Both Football Icons

According to Ireporter Online, Nigerian international Alex Iwobi has entered the long-standing football debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, revealing that he rates the Argentine forward higher after facing both superstars during his career.

Speaking on the Beast Mode Podcast, Iwobi said his perspective was shaped by direct encounters with both players, particularly during his time in the Premier League and international competitions. He admitted the choice was difficult but ultimately leaned towards Messi.

“That’s a tough one. I always say Messi when asked the age-old Messi or Ronaldo question,” Iwobi said, while also acknowledging Ronaldo’s presence on the pitch. “When I played against Ronaldo, don’t get me wrong, the aura is crazy.”

Iwobi recalled facing Ronaldo in Premier League meetings between Everton and Manchester United, describing the Portuguese forward’s late-career efficiency and goal-scoring instinct. One of their most notable clashes came at Goodison Park in October 2022, when Iwobi scored before Ronaldo came off the bench to register his 700th club goal in a 2-1 win for Manchester United. The duo also met in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in November 2021 and again in April 2022, a match Everton won in a crucial relegation battle.

Despite these experiences, Iwobi said his encounter with Messi left a far greater impression. He reflected on his first UEFA Champions League start for Arsenal against Barcelona at Camp Nou in March 2016, where he faced a legendary Barcelona side featuring Messi, Neymar, Luis Suárez, Andrés Iniesta, Xavi, and Dani Alves.

“But when I played against Messi at the Nou Camp, there was Messi, Neymar, Suarez, Iniesta, Xavi, Dani Alves—just names on names on names,” he said. “This was my first Champions League start, and I’m walking out, bare fans, and all I’m hearing is ‘Messi, Messi, Messi.’”

Iwobi described Messi’s influence during the game as overwhelming, noting the space and control the Argentine commanded whenever he had the ball. “Every time he had the ball, there was like a radius around him where no one could enter and tackle him. It was mad; no one could get near him,” he added.

He further described the match as one of the most unforgettable moments of his career, despite the heavy defeat. “I will never forget my Champions League debut. The MSN—Messi, Neymar, Suárez—they all scored. It was the perfect loss for me. I’ve never enjoyed a loss like that,” he said.

Iwobi also faced Messi on the international stage during Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, a match in which the Argentine captain opened the scoring.