14 Aug Ronaldo outlines what sets him apart from long-time rival Messi

Cristiano Ronaldo says winning the UEFA Champions League with multiple clubs is what separates himself from Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo, 34, has won Europe’s top club competition five times, once at Manchester United and four times at Real Madrid in the space of five years.

In comparison, Messi, 32, has won the Champions League four times with Barcelona, the club he has spent his entire career.

"The difference with Messi is that I played for several clubs and won the Champions League with different clubs,” Ronaldo told DAZN.

"I was top scorer in the Champions League six seasons in a row. There aren't many players who won five Champions League trophies, so this is why I feel that I can identify myself with this tournament.”

The Portuguese superstar went on to heap praise on his long-time rival.

"Messi is an excellent player who will be remembered not just for his Ballon d'Or wins, but also for having improved—like me—year after year,” Ronaldo added.

"I wake up every morning with the idea in my head of training with the objective of achieving something more, not just to earn money. Thank God, I don't lack money, so what I want to earn is a place in the history of football."

Ronaldo and Messi are regarded as two of the greatest footballers to have played the sport alongside Pele and Maradona.

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