Jay-Jay Okocha reveals what separates Messi from Ronaldo

The two players are among the greatest to play the game, but Okocha believes Messi is better than Ronaldo.

Former Nigeria captain Austin Jay-Jay Okocha says he respect Cristiano Ronaldo but insists Lionel Messi is a better player. 

Messi and Ronaldo rivalry 

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are seen as the greatest players in the modern game, with their rivalry proving to be an unending debate. 

The two players have competed for both team and individual honours, although they have not battled against each other in the last few years. 

Messi and Ronaldo enjoyed a competitive rivalry during their time together in LaLiga playing for two of the biggest clubs in Spain Barcelona and Real Madrid. 

The two iconic stars have 12 Ballon d’Ors between them, with Messi winning seven and Ronaldo winning five. 

The rivalry between the two pair has been an unending debate and is one of the most polarising arguments in sports history. 

While wading into the debate, Okocha revealed who he thinks is the better player between the duos. 

Okocha says Messi is more talented than Ronaldo

In an Exclusive interview with Pulse Sports, the former Bolton Wanderers star praised Ronaldo for getting to the highest level through hardwork. However, he said Messi is the better player because of his immense talents.

“I respect Cristiano Ronaldo a lot but I define it this way, Messi is an example of what you can achieve with raw talent. Cristiano Ronaldo is an example of what you can achieve with hard work,” Okocha told Pulse Sports. 

Messi and Ronaldo are still going at it and could renew their rivalry in Saudi Arabia sooner than later. 

Ronaldo currently plays in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr but his old rival could join him soon, with Al-Hilal set to make him [Messi] the highest paid athlete in sports history.