Former Real Madrid left-back Marcelo has once again weighed in on football’s most enduring debate, naming Cristiano Ronaldo as his favourite player ahead of Lionel Messi.

Marcelo, who shared a long and trophy-laden spell with Ronaldo at Real Madrid, also faced Messi numerous times during fiery El Clásico encounters against Barcelona. Speaking to DjMaRiiO, the Brazilian legend admitted that Messi was one of the most difficult opponents he ever faced on the pitch.

“Messi was a real pain,” Marcelo confessed, acknowledging the Argentine’s ability to torment defenders with ease. He also mentioned former Sevilla winger Jesús Navas as another player who caused him serious problems, while noting that Xabi Prieto was equally difficult to defend against during his career.

Despite his respect for Messi’s talent, Marcelo made his personal preference clear.

“I always choose Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi is incredible. We’ve enjoyed watching both of them — well, I’ve only enjoyed watching one. I’m a die-hard Cristiano fan,” he said.

The former Brazil international has never hidden his loyalty, consistently siding with his former Real Madrid teammate whenever the Ronaldo-versus-Messi debate resurfaces.

Opinion: Loyalty, Experience, and the Beauty of Rivalry

Marcelo’s stance is hardly surprising. Football opinions are often shaped by shared battles, victories, and memories, and few players experienced Cristiano Ronaldo’s peak years as closely as Marcelo did at Real Madrid. From Champions League nights to historic comebacks, the duo built a bond forged in success.

That said, Marcelo’s honesty about Messi being a “real pain” adds credibility to his view. It reflects the reality many defenders faced during that golden era — Messi and Ronaldo pushed opponents to their limits in completely different ways. One dazzled with dribbles and vision, the other dominated with power, pace, and ruthless finishing.

Ultimately, Marcelo’s choice reminds fans that the Messi–Ronaldo debate is not just about statistics or trophies, but also about personal connection and lived experience. And perhaps that’s what made their rivalry so special: even those who suffered at their hands can still admire them, while remaining firmly loyal to one side of football history’s greatest divide.