Legend-making traits shared by Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo revealed by former team-mates that has played alongside both GOATs

Portuguese midfielder Danilo has been an international team-mate of CR7, who is still going strong at 40 years of age. They are now domestic rivals in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr respectively.

Danilo moved to the Middle East in 2024 after spending three years in France with Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain. It was during that stint at Parc des Princes that he got to work with Argentine superstar Messi.

Having watched two all-time greats up close, Danilo can appreciate what separates them from the rest and helps to make them special. For him, it is work ethic that has carried the iconic duo to the very top of the global team.

The 33-year-old told the Sem Filtros podcast of his time spent in the company of multiple Ballon d’Or winners: “I was fortunate to play alongside two legends, two very strong personalities on and off the field. From both of them, I remember the discipline, confidence, and professional way they approach every training session, every game, and every moment of their lives.”

Ronaldo has committed to a new two-year contract at Al-Nassr, which will take him beyond his 42nd birthday. Messi, meanwhile, is reportedly being lined up for an extension through 2028 with MLS side Inter Miami.