Former Inter Miami player Brek Shea said in an interview that if Cristiano Ronaldo had chosen to join MLS back then, his impact in the league would have surpassed that of Lionel Messi.
His Views on Ronaldo
“I think Ronaldo would have had a bigger impact than Messi if he were in MLS. No disrespect to Messi, but he seems more like a family-oriented person. He is very reserved and quiet, and he’s not very fluent in the local language. So I just think Ronaldo appears more outgoing and does more in the public eye.”
“Therefore, I believe that just for this reason—being able to speak the language here and being willing to do interviews—would automatically generate greater influence. I strictly mean off-field impact. I don’t know if he could have put up the same stats, but in terms of influence, bigger? Yes, he would have.”
His Views on Messi
“I think from Inter Miami’s perspective, they can’t let Messi leave. Everywhere I travel, to Spain, to France, to South America, I see pink jerseys everywhere.”
“It’s really crazy—so many Inter Miami jerseys wherever you go. It’s amazing for the league and for Inter Miami. Obviously, Messi probably knows that and has seen it too.”
“But I didn’t think he would play in this World Cup. It’s shocking to see Ronaldo and Messi playing at this level for so long.”
“Personally, I think Inter Miami needs him for the new stadium opening next year. I think they need him for the first two seasons to start a new chapter. So it’s good for him and good for the league. Messi, please keep going.”
