Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi playing for same team before retiring 'would be dream'

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been told uniting to end their illustrious careers would be nothing short of a ‘dream come true’. Pedro Mendes, the ex-Tottenham and Portsmouth midfielder, has floated the tantalising idea that the two titans of the game, who were once fierce adversaries during their time at Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively, should team up for one last hurrah.

Messi is currently at Inter Miami after joining last year, while Ronaldo remains with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr after a headline-grabbing transfer to Al-Nassr following his second departure from Manchester United. But Mendes, who shared the pitch with Ronaldo at the 2010 World Cup, believes the Portuguese should consider joining the David Beckham-owned club to play alongside Messi.

In a chat with BoyleSports, known for offering the latest Premier League betting odds, Mendes expressed his vision: “If Cristiano Ronaldo joined Inter Miami it would be amazing for the fans and incredible for football in America, reports the Mirror.

“It would mean that the two best players in the history and future of football, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would finish their careers together which would be a dream come true.” Yet Mendes acknowledged the challenges of such a scenario, adding: “However, I can’t see it happening. It would be very difficult.”

Ronaldo, 39, faced disappointment earlier this month when Portugal were knocked out of Euro 2024 following a penalty shoot-out loss to France in the quarter-finals. During the tournament, Ronaldo had disclosed that this was indeed his final European Championships but suggested he might still play for Portugal beyond this summer in a heartfelt thank you note to the Selecao supporters following their defeat.

“We wanted more. We deserved more. For us. For each one of you. For Portugal,” he penned on Instagram. “We are grateful for everything you have given us and for everything we have achieved so far. On and off the field, I am sure that this legacy will be honoured and will continue to be built. Together.”

Ronaldo’s performances at the Euros were widely panned by critics. It was the first major international tournament of his career where he failed to score a goal. The Al-Nassr striker started all five of Portugal’s games and, despite his dry run in front of goal, was consistenly chosen by Roberto Martinez.

The Selecao boss, who also managed Belgium, refused to comment on whether Ronaldo and Pepe would be retiring from international duty after the defeat to France. He also paid tribute to the defender who was seen crying after their penalty shoot-out loss.

“His tears are frustration,” said Martinez. “Pepe is a role model in Portuguese football. What he did tonight and in the tournament will stay with us for the next generations.”