In various exclusive interviews, Lionel Messi has often been asked about the players—past or present—he most desired to share the pitch with professionally. While he has played with many greats, three names stand out as his most heartfelt choices:
1. Ronaldinho (The Idol and Mentor)
Messi considers the Brazilian magician his most significant influence. Although they played together during Messi’s early years at FC Barcelona, Leo has expressed a wish to have played alongside Ronaldinho during his absolute "Prime" (the 2004–2006 era).
Messi’s Perspective: He often cites Ronaldinho as the player who impressed him most in Europe and the one who made his transition to the first team seamless.
2. Zinedine Zidane (The Master of Elegance)
Zidane is at the top of Messi’s list of legends he missed out on. During a famous sit-down with Zidane himself for Adidas, Messi admitted his deep admiration for the Frenchman’s style.
Messi’s Perspective: He was captivated by Zidane’s footballing intelligence and elegance. Messi famously noted, "For me, he is one of the greatest in history... I always admired him." He even confessed that Zidane is the only player he ever went out of his way to ask for a jersey swap.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo (The Ultimate Rivalry)
Despite their decade-long rivalry, Messi has always maintained a level of mutual respect for the Portuguese star. In a 2015 interview, when asked about playing with CR7, he gave a clear answer.
Messi’s Perspective: "I always like to play with the best, and he is one of them." While rumors of them joining forces have surfaced many times (notably during their later careers), it remains the ultimate "What If" in football history.
