Rudiger picks Messi & Ronaldo in the best XI of stars he has faced in his career

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger revealed the greatest XI of players he has faced during his career, and picked out Lionel Messi as the 'best ever'.

Rudiger, speaking to Sky Sports in 2020, outlined his eye-opening selections in-depth, explaining how and why he made his decisions.

In his team, he selected a number of his rivals from the Premier League, and also found room for both Messi - now at PSG - and Cristiano Ronaldo.

When quizzed on who is the best out of the two, Rudiger said: 'If I had to pick one it would be Messi.

'Is he the best ever? I didn't see Pele or Diego Maradona playing because that was not my time, so it's Messi.'

He has settled any differences in the top-flight, however, having selected five of his peers as well as a host of big names from across the globe.

In goal, centre back Rudiger chose Manuer Neuer, the Bayern Munich goalkeeper.

Hailing him as 'unbeatable' in 2014, his compatriot said the stopper 'took everything' during a standout performance against Algeria at the World Cup.

At right back, Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been picked.

'This guy is hard to beat, with his tackles - his sliding tackle is amazing,' Rudiger said.

'He is progressing very well, and I like him very much.'

Sergio Ramos and Virgil van Dijk form a formidable partnership at centre back, meanwhile, with the former labelled a 'commanding defender.'

'Beast' Van Dijk, though, has helped Rudiger 'learn something', according to his fellow defender, as he continues to prove a rock for Liverpool.

Van Dijk's team-mate at Anfield, Andy Robertson, fills in at left back.

As for midfield, Andres Iniesta, N'Golo Kante and Kevin De Bruyne were selected.

Speaking about Manchester City playmaker De Bruyne, Rudiger said: 'I played against him in Germany.

'In those days, it was hell to play against Wolfsburg because they were a really tough side with good quality players, and of course he was the best in that team.

'He has everything; his crossing, passing, the way he shoots on his left and right foot and his technical ability - he is really, really good.'

Capping off his star-studded 4-3-3 formation, Rudiger picked Messi on the right wing, Ronaldo on the left and fielded Sergio Aguero through the middle.

Further heaping praise on Messi, Rudiger said: 'When you're playing against Messi, the feeling you have is that it's just up to him.

'If he is in a good mood or is having a good day you cannot stop him. That is my honest opinion.'