Brazilian football legend Marcelo has once again chosen Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi in the long-running debate over who deserves to be regarded as the greatest footballer of all time.
During a rapid-fire interview with Mexican twin content creators Isi and Benny, professionally known as Si somos gemelos on social media, Marcelo was asked to choose between the two global superstars.
After briefly considering the question, the former Real Madrid defender made his preference clear.
“Oh, let me see… But you already know: Cristiano to the death,” Marcelo responded.
Marcelo’s preference for Ronaldo is perhaps unsurprising given their successful nine-year spell together at Real Madrid. The Brazilian left-back shared the dressing room with the Portuguese forward during one of the most successful periods in the Spanish club’s history.
Together, they won several major trophies, including UEFA Champions League and LaLiga titles, while helping Real Madrid establish themselves as one of Europe’s dominant teams.
Marcelo Has Consistently Favoured Ronaldo
This is not the first time Marcelo has selected Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Lionel Messi.
During an interview with YouTuber DjMaRiio in December 2025, Marcelo praised Messi but once again made it clear that he considers himself a strong Ronaldo supporter.
The former Real Madrid star had previously addressed the same question during a Twitch livestream, where he reflected on the privilege of watching both players during the same era.
Marcelo acknowledged Messi’s exceptional ability and recalled the difficulties of facing the Argentine during his playing career. However, his personal experience of playing alongside Ronaldo ultimately influenced his preference.
He explained that football fans were fortunate to have witnessed both superstars, adding that while he admired Messi, his connection with Ronaldo was stronger because they had shared the pitch as teammates.
Messi and Ronaldo Continue Their Careers Outside Europe
Although Marcelo has retired from professional football, both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to play at the highest level outside European football.
Messi currently represents Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while Ronaldo continues his career in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr.
The rivalry between the two superstars remains one of football’s most enduring debates, with former teammates, players and football personalities continuing to offer their opinions on the question of who stands above the other.
Marcelo’s latest comments add another chapter to that debate, with the Brazilian once again making it clear that his personal choice is Cristiano Ronaldo.