• Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi no longer play in the Champions League, but they left plenty of memories
• The two icons dominated the league for years with incredible goals and clutch performances
• Several players were asked to choose what comes to mind when they think about the competition, and the responses were telling

The 2024/25 Champions League has produced some epic matches in the first few weeks.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi thrived in the league but left Europe as they headed for retirement.

Several players, including Erling Haaland and Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, were asked what comes to mind when they think about the competition.

Ronaldo and Messi are the top two in both goals and assists in the league. The Al-Nassr star is the top scorer with 140 goals, while the Inter Miami star is second with 129.

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Ronaldo has won five Champions League titles, while Messi has four. The two have been competing against each other for over a decade and are now considered one of the greats.

Champions League asked Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, Kevin de Bruyne, Phil Foden, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Florian Wirtz and others what comes to mind when they think of the competition.

They all said Ronaldo. The Portuguese legend has some of the best moments in the competition, such as his goal against Juventus in 2018.

Messi’s last Champions League trophy came in 2015, while Ronaldo last won it in 2018. The Barcelona legend is fondly remembered for dropping Jerome Boateng in 2015 and appearing in the 2009 and 2011 finals, according to Sports Illustrated .

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Another report states Short news reported that legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon made his choice in the GOAT debate.

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The World Cup winner said both players are different, adding that Messi is complete while Ronaldo has the killer instinct.

Buffon’s analysis highlighted Messi’s extraordinary adaptability, noting his ability to thrive in multiple positions on the pitch. Known for his superb dribbling, accurate passing and playmaking ability, Messi has consistently functioned as both a playmaker and a goalscorer, switching seamlessly between midfield and striker roles. His influence on the game extends far beyond just scoring goals.

Source: TUKO.co.ke