Rooney thinks Messi better? CR7: No opinion – he’s free to say what he wants

On November 6, Piers Morgan released the second part of his interview with Cristiano Ronaldo, in which he discussed Rooney's previous comments on who was better, himself or Messi.

Last week, your former teammate Rooney said he doesn't hate you as much as people portray him. On the contrary, he admires you, calling you a genius and not that difficult to get along with, but he still thinks Messi is better.

Ronaldo: Whatever he says, it doesn't matter. (Morgan: Dude, that's such a formulaic answer!) Seriously, I can accept his opinion; I have no problem with it. It's his freedom to express himself.

So, how's your relationship with Rooney?

Ronaldo: When we played together, we had a good relationship, but not the kind of friendship where I'd invite him over for lunch or dinner. My good relationship with Rooney is purely about football. For me, the word "friend" carries a lot of weight. I don't easily call a player "my friend." I'm a very social person, but many relationships end with respect, including my relationship with Rooney. Now I respect him even more because of his outstanding contributions to Manchester United; we won many things together. Now, whether he says I'm a genius or that Messi is better than me, it's not a problem. If we meet again, I will shake his hand and hug him. I have never been his enemy. I respect everyone.