'I am nobody compared to Lionel Messi' - Al-Hilal forward Michael insists he wasn't trying to disrespect Inter Miami superstar by copying Cristiano Ronaldo's famous 'Siuuu' celebration in Riyadh Season Cup clash

The Brazilian forward was on target when lining up for his Saudi Pro League employers against MLS opponents in the Riyadh Cup. Michael scored Al-Hilal’s third in a thrilling 4-3 victory, and could not hide his joy when hitting the net.

Michael raced away and broke out Ronaldo’s iconic celebration – with the Portuguese superstar now a domestic rival on the books of Al-Nassr – and many questioned what Messi’s reaction would be to seeing an opponent emulate his eternal rival when gracing the same playing field.

Messi has seen enough down the years to ensure that such behaviour will never impact him, with the Argentine accustomed to being front and centre in the long-running GOAT debate, and Michael has told Saudi media that he was not trying to make a point to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. He said: “I am nobody compared to Messi. This comparison is not for me. I'm a big admirer of his, I'm a fan. I thank God for the opportunity to enjoy and be with him at a football match. I thank all those responsible for the Riyadh Season Cup, which allowed us to face the best in the world, Lionel Messi. We enjoyed the confrontation.”

Messi’s next outing could see him come up against Ronaldo, with the Portuguese superstar hoping to shake off an unfortunate injury in time to face Inter Miami in another friendly fixture on Thursday.