Luiz Felipe Scolari Explains Preference for Ronaldo Over Messi

Luiz Felipe Scolari, who managed the Portuguese national team from 2003 to 2008, shared insights into his perspective on the rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. He detailed the emotional and professional factors influencing his votes for the world’s best player.

During an interview on the program Abre Aspas, Scolari recounted a conversation with Messi where the Argentine expressed frustration that Scolari never voted for him for the Ballon d'Or, always choosing Ronaldo instead. Scolari responded, "I have to vote for Cristiano, he's like a son to me." He described Messi as a genius who instinctively knows the ball’s position, while Ronaldo was not born a genius but became one through determination and hard work.

Ronaldo's Work Ethic and Goal Milestone

Scolari emphasized Ronaldo’s intense commitment to training, which was evident during his early years at Manchester United. The coach revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson often contacted him, concerned that Ronaldo was overexerting himself with individual training after official matches. "Ferguson would call me and say, 'Scolari, tell him not to take free kicks today, because he's already taken 30 here.' And then he'd arrive at the national team and want to take another 30. I'd say, 'For God's sake, you've already done that.' But that's his dedication," Scolari explained.

The coach also expressed confidence that Ronaldo will reach the historic milestone of 1,000 career goals. He shared a recent exchange with Ronaldo, asking if he was aiming for that target. Ronaldo denied it, but Scolari said, "Ah... you're not fooling me. I think he'll achieve it."

Personal Moments and Enduring Friendship

Scolari recalled a poignant moment when he had to inform Ronaldo about the death of his father, Dinis Aveiro, just before an important match in Moscow. The player’s response strengthened their bond beyond football. "They called me and told me what had happened. I thought I had to give him the news. I called him into my room, hugged him, cried with him, and told him he was free to go. And he replied: 'First the national team. My father would want me to play.' And he was the best player on the field in that game. That's how I developed a stronger friendship with the family as well," Scolari shared.

Rivalry and the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup, set to take place in North America, is anticipated to be the final tournament featuring both Ronaldo and Messi, marking their sixth World Cup appearances. For Ronaldo, this event represents a last chance to win the only major trophy missing from his achievements. Messi continues to be the central figure for Argentina, the reigning world champions, leading a team considered among the favorites to defend their title on American soil.