Cristiano Ronaldo hits out at Barcelona legend Xavi after he says Lionel Messi is better

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has hit out at Barcelona legend Xavi after the midfielder claimed that Lionel Messi is the best player in the world.

The 36-year-old had said that the Portuguese was a top player and just unlucky to be around at the same time as Messi, but this seemed to make no difference to the three-time Ballon d’Or winner.

‘Only a fool could have played football and not recognise Cristiano is an elite footballer,’ the Spaniard had mentioned.

‘But he has just had bad luck to be around at the same time as Leo.’

Lionel Messi has won more Ballon d’Ors than Ronaldo, if he’s counting

In reply, Ronaldo bizarrely ranted that he is most searched for player on the internet – after he had netted against Osasuna on his return to action following winning Euro 2016.

The forward also denigrated the ex-Barca man’s decision to see out his playing days in Qatar, where he now plays for Al-Sadd.

‘The most searched for player on the Internet is me,’ said the 31-year-old.

Ronaldo has won more international tournaments than Messi

‘Those that want to appear on front covers or promote things speak about me.

‘What does it matter to me what Xavi says, he played in Qatar or I don’t know.

‘He’s won everything but he’s never won a Ballon d’Or – I have three.’

Who is the better player?

• Ronaldo
• Messi