The Dream of Messi and Ronaldo Together at Real Madrid: Insights from Ramon Calderon
Messi and Ronaldo: A Dream Collaboration
For nearly twenty years, football enthusiasts have debated who deserves the title of the greatest player ever. At one point, there was speculation about the possibility of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo teaming up at Real Madrid. Ramon Calderon, the former president of the club, has now shared insights on whether this dream scenario was ever seriously considered. He stated, "I would have loved to see it happen, but it was unfeasible since Messi was with Barcelona, and they would never allow him to leave unless he took the initiative, similar to what Cristiano did at Manchester United. However, Messi was content at Barcelona, making it impossible. It’s unfortunate because having the two best players in the world on the same team would have been incredible."
Cristiano Ronaldo's Transfer to Real Madrid
Calderon revealed that Real Madrid engaged in discussions for approximately two years to secure Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United. He noted that while United was reluctant to let him go, Ronaldo's eagerness to join Madrid facilitated the transfer. Calderon emphasized that given Ronaldo's stature as one of the top players alongside Messi, acquiring him was an opportunity the club couldn't overlook. He remarked, "We were negotiating for two years. Naturally, Manchester United didn't want him to leave, but the player had his heart set on Madrid. It's well-known that players like Cristiano ultimately go where they truly want to be; you can't hold them back. I was there, and like anyone else would have done, I seized the chance. At that time, he was the best player in the world alongside Messi, so it made perfect sense to sign him."
Ronaldo's Exit: A Misstep
Despite the remarkable achievements Ronaldo had at Real Madrid, Calderon believes that his exit in 2018 was a miscalculation for everyone involved. He suggested that the growing tensions between Ronaldo and club president Florentino Perez contributed to the forward's record-setting transfer to Juventus, where he struggled to replicate his success in Spain. Calderon stated, "I think it was a mistake for both parties. The relationship was strained from the start and worsened over time. The president didn't believe anyone would pay 100 million euros, but a club did, leaving him with no choice but to accept the player's departure. Ronaldo never fully adapted to any club outside of Real Madrid, and finding another player like him is nearly impossible."