The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi has always extended beyond goals, trophies, and records.

The debate over who sits at the very top of world soccer has defined an entire generation. Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, or Lamine Yamal—each name represents a different era, a different idea of greatness.

As the soccer world looks ahead to 2026, questions continue to swirl around Lionel Messi and whether the sport’s most decorated modern icon will once again step onto the game’s biggest stage.

After his standout triumph in the 2025 MLS Cup with Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has now been named one of three finalists for an award he has never claimed in his career.

With a contract renewal for Tadeo Allende increasingly complicated, Inter Miami are reportedly interested in a former teammate of Lionel Messi who won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina.

While familiar icons like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe continue to dominate headlines, the assist charts have delivered a quiet shock: a new name has risen above them both, redefining what elite playmaking looks like this year.

With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo still setting global benchmarks, Semenyo was asked to choose between the two.

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Lionel Messi's Argentina was targeted by a former France international with a sharp message: "I only feel hatred toward them."

After his loan deal at Inter Miami expired, Lionel Messi's former teammate Baltasar Rodriguez shed some light on his future.

Lionel Messi has topped a prestigious ranking of the 21st century, leaving sports legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady, and LeBron James behind.

While many players see their worth collapse as birthdays pile up, one of soccer’s most enduring icons is proving that time alone does not dictate relevance.

Thomas Muller spoke about how he saw Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer and, based on that, shared his thoughts on Leo’s chances of competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Lionel Messi's successor in Catalonia, Yamal, has not only matched the elite—he has surpassed them at just 18, topping Mbappe in a decisive attacking feat that underlines how rapidly the balance of power is shifting.

Lionel Messi emerged as Inter Miami's offensive leader, leading them to their first MLS Cup. Despite this, the veteran was firmly accompanied by Tadeo Allende, who stepped up his level. However, the 26-year-old star's continuity with the Herons may be in jeopardy.

Pedri addressed the rumors surrounding a potential return of Lionel Messi to Barcelona.