Messi Surpasses Ronaldo, Says Maldini

Former captain of the Italian national team and AC Milan, 56-year-old Paolo Maldini has chosen between Argentine Lionel Messi and Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo, giving preference to the world champion.

"I know both Ronaldo and Messi very well. Both have consistently won the 'Ballon d'Or' in previous years, but I believe Messi surpasses Ronaldo. Cristiano is a top player and a strong personality, but I prefer Messi," Maldini's words are quoted by Barca Universal.

Messi has won the 'Ballon d'Or' 8 times, while Ronaldo has won it 5 times. Messi is a record holder in football history with 45 titles.