Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi could form a "very complementary" partnership if they were to play together.
Meulensteen's comments come amidst speculation about Ronaldo's future, particularly a potential move to Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami after his current contract in Saudi Arabia concludes.
Ronaldo is currently on the verge of securing a Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr and is also competing in the AFC Champions League Two final, potentially capping off his season with significant silverware.
Despite having a lucrative contract with Al-Nassr that runs until 2027, Meulensteen posits that Ronaldo might be enticed by a move to MLS for a season, especially if it meant the opportunity to play alongside his long-time rival, Lionel Messi.
While acknowledging the inherent difficulty in directly comparing two footballing legends like Ronaldo and Messi, Meulensteen highlighted their distinct strengths and how these differences could translate into a highly effective on-field synergy.
Beyond a potential MLS switch, Meulensteen also pondered other potential career endings for Ronaldo. A return to his former club Sporting CP was mentioned as a possibility for the twilight of his career.
However, the prospect of playing alongside his son, Cristiano Jr., in Saudi Arabia also presents a compelling narrative and a potential option for Ronaldo before any hypothetical move to the United States.
Ultimately, Meulensteen's perspective offers an intriguing glimpse into how two of football's greatest ever players might coexist and thrive, even at the later stages of their illustrious careers.
