'He's finished': Messi and Ronaldo fandoms descend into chaos as face-off confirmed in Saudi friendlies

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA: Chaos has erupted among fans online following Inter Miami's announcement that Lionel Messi will face long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia next year, according to a report by Al Jazeera.

Lionel Messi will face Cristiano Ronaldo in pre-season friendlies

The MLS club revealed details of two high-profile pre-season friendlies in Riyadh on January 29 and February 1, confirming Messi will take on Ronaldo's new team Al Nassr in the second match.

Inter Miami will first play Saudi giants Al Hilal on January 29 at the Kingdom Arena, before facing Ronaldo’s Al Nassr at the same venue three days later. The match against Al Nassr and its star signing Ronaldo is undoubtedly the headliner, reuniting the two legends.

It will be the first international tour for the MLS club, which will also visit El Salvador and Hong Kong as part of their preparations for the 2023 season.  After departing Paris Saint-Germain, Messi was presented with an opportunity to join the Saudi league but instead chose to commit to Miami. His tenure there saw him guiding the team to victory in the Leagues Cup.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo hold 13 Ballon d’Or awards collectively

The rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo, holders of an astonishing 13 Ballon d’Or awards collectively, continues to captivate audiences globally. From their initial encounter in 2008 to the upcoming Riyadh Season Cup, this longstanding battle for supremacy has enraptured fans, adding yet another chapter to their storied history.

Inter Miami's chief business officer, Xavier Asensi, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "This is another major opportunity to create lasting relationships with passionate fans. We are excited to connect with new supporters in Saudi Arabia, and also hope people all over the world will be tuning in to see a pair of dream matches like these."

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's fans clash on social media in wake of upcoming face off

Upon the announcement, the internet exploded with contrasting opinions from fervent fans of Messi and Ronaldo. Social media platforms witnessed a clash of opinions as fans debated the potential outcome of the impending matches.

One user confidently asserted, "Ronaldo will own Messi again," while another disparagingly remarked, "I even forgot Messi is still an active Football player. He's finished, One of the most overrated player ever."

Adding to the mix, a third user quipped, "MESSI Keeps following RONALDO everywhere. First when he was at PSG then now at Inter Miami. Ronaldo is indeed a GOAT." Contrarily, another individual countered, "Messi will own Ronaldo."

Amidst the contrasting opinions, a fifth user eagerly anticipated, "Messi masterclass incoming."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.