Key attribute that sets Cristiano Ronaldo apart from Lionel Messi revealed as Wolves star Nelson Semedo - who has played with both - makes ‘different in training’ claim

The Wolves full-back is one of the rare individuals to have played with both the legends of the sport. Having played alongside Messi during his Barcelona days and with Ronaldo in the Portugal national team, Semedo offered a glimpse into the divergent training regimens of the two superstars.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Semedo revealed: "In training, Cristiano is a different type of player. He always wants to train, and go to the gym before and after the training. On the pitch, he is very competitive. Even with the national team, sometimes when we’re doing 7v7, he always wants to play until the last minute. When he finishes, he just wants to keep going. So, Cristiano is different. I’m lucky to play with these guys."

Semedo also acknowledged Messi's greatness, specifically praising the Argentine star for his FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022 which put him on the same pedestal along with the legends such as Pele and Diego Maradona.

“It was really good to see him winning [the World Cup]. He deserved it as well for everything he gave to football," he said.

Semedo made 108 appearances alongside Messi at Barcelona, winning two league titles, a Copa del Rey and a Spanish Super Cup. Whereas, he has played 21 times with Ronaldo, contributing to Portugal's triumph in the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

Semedo will be back in action against Everton on Saturday in a Premier League fixture, whereas, Ronaldo will be looking to add to his ever-increasing goal tally when Al-Nassr will take on Al-Taawoun in the Saudi Pro League on the same day.

However, Messi is currently enjoying a break from football and will return to training in late January with Inter Miami before the 2024 MLS season kicks off in February.