For the past four or five years, soccer fans across the world have been debating who is the best player in the world: Lionel Messi or Christiano Ronaldo. Although you can through other names into the hat, these two have been the focus of the discussion. If you break them down by statistics and playing styles, it is really hard to say who takes the top spot.
Statistics:
Messi scored 41 goals during the 2015-2016 year in in 48 appearances with 21 assists.
Ronaldo Scored 51 goals in 47 appearances with 15 assists in all competitions.
Playing styles:
Messi plays more of a central attacking role with Barcelona. He serves as a linking player (playing between midfielders and the strikers) which has become known as the "10" spot. It allows him to distribute, as well as go forward on attacking plays and counter attacks.
Ronaldo primarily plays on the outside with Real Madrid. He is the "highlight reel" player, providing a dynamic attack from a wide position, which can cause serious defensive breakdowns for a back line.
If you had to choose one for your team, I think it comes down to the role you need to fill on the field. Ronaldo scored 10 more goals than Messi last year, but Messi provided 6 more assists. If I am looking for a player who can stretch the field and provide quick counters when needed, I would go with Ronaldo. If I am looking for someone to help distribute the ball and help possess in the final third, I would go with Messi. I personally have always sided with Messi, but mainly because I have always played a central midfield role and looked up to his ability to control a game and strike at the drop of a dime. That being said, the discussion (or most times argument) over these two shall continue.
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