The Myth of Messi Copying CR7's Skills

The idea that Lionel Messi copies Cristiano Ronaldo’s skills is a common perception but often does not reflect the reality of their playing styles. Here, we explore the truth behind this myth and the unique contributions each player brings to the sport.

Different Playing Styles

Both Messi and Ronaldo have distinct playing styles that set them apart from one another. Messi is renowned for his incredible dribbling vision and extraordinary playmaking abilities, which are crucial for creating opportunities and setting up teammates. Ronaldo, on the other hand, is celebrated for his athleticism, aerial prowess, and goal-scoring instinct, making him a formidable presence in the box.

Influence of Peers and Predecessors

Like all athletes, Messi and Ronaldo have been influenced by their peers and predecessors. They might incorporate techniques or moves they see from one another, but this is part of the natural evolution of their skill sets. It is not a matter of outright copying but rather a blending of styles and strategies to become even better players.

Competitive Nature

The rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo has pushed both players to continuously improve. They often study each other's games to find ways to counteract each other's strengths, leading to the perception that they are mimicking each other. However, this is more about mutual respect and learning rather than outright copying.

Media Narratives

The media often emphasizes the rivalry between the two players, creating a narrative that one is copying the other when, in reality, they are simply developing their own games. This highlights the importance of distinguishing between imitation and innovation in sports.

In summary, while Messi and Ronaldo may share some skills due to their experiences as elite footballers, they each have their own unique attributes and styles that define their greatness.

Unveiling the Truth: Unique Players in their Own Right

Firstly, let me address the criticism. This question is indeed one of the most simplistic and misguided queries I've seen. People play in their own ways, and players always learn from each other, which is a natural part of their development. Rarely do they function as copycats.

When I say I am a Cristiano Ronaldo fan and a die-hard Real Madrid supporter, it does not mean I think less of Lionel Messi. If you think Messi copies CR7, it's usually because you only see short moments of display or an illusion. However, if you watch them play for seasons, you will notice they are entirely different types of players:

Cristiano Ronaldo's Evolution

CR7 used to be a prolific winger in his early days, favoring the left wing and drifting into the 18-yard box. Over the years, due to aging, he has transformed into a traditional center-forward, a role that suits his strengths better.

Lionel Messi's Versatility

Messi has always played as a forward, second striker, or False 9. While we have seen him on the right wing at kick-off, he often moves into central positions as the game progresses. He is a creative playmaker and visionary passer, much stronger in short passing and ball control. While Ronaldo was also a playmaking trickster in his Manchester United days, he had to adapt to become a match-winning scorer at Real Madrid.

Individual Skills

CR7 is a lethal finisher, and even great goalkeepers like Buffon, Neuer, and Cech have struggled against him. On the other hand, Messi is a masterful creator, known for his body-fainting techniques, which are his trademark. Ronaldo is also a great header of the ball and stays inside the box during corners, whereas Messi is more of a set-piece specialist, taking corner kicks.

Hence, it's impossible to find any true similarities between these two living soccer gods. Cherish the fact that you can watch both of them play. Football has never been decorated as much by anyone before as by this duo.