Lionel Messi continues to excel as Inter Miami’s standout player and ranks among the most productive talents in MLS, even at 38. In 2025, he impressively netted 25 goals over 34 matches for both his club and the Argentine national team, securing his position as the league’s top scorer this season. Meanwhile, many have drawn comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo‘s concurrent performance, noting his sustained productivity as well.
Although Messi continues to demonstrate remarkable scoring prowess, Cristiano Ronaldo closely trails with an impressive 22 goals in just 26 appearances for both his club and the Portuguese national team. Despite having three fewer goals, the Portuguese star accomplished this feat in eight fewer matches. The crucial difference is Ronaldo’s three goals for his national team, a contribution Messi has yet to make for Argentina.
Despite the inevitable comparisons, both Messi and Cristiano continue to prove themselves as essential figures for their teams. The Argentine star has become a key player for Inter Miami, making a difference not only in scoring but also creatively, with 10 assists for the team this season. Similarly, the Portuguese star continues to spearhead Al Nassr’s rebuilding efforts under the leadership of head coach Jorge Jesus, having scored five goals in two preseason games.
How many goals does Lionel Messi need to pass Cristiano Ronaldo in all-time career scoring?
Lionel Messi kicked off 2025 with more goals than Cristiano Ronaldo, yet the Portuguese star still holds the record for the most career goals between the two. Ronaldo has amassed an impressive 938 goals over 1,281 matches. Meanwhile, Messi, with his remarkable talent, would need to notch 64 more goals to claim this record for himself. It is worth noting that Cristiano remains active on the field, consistently adding to his astounding tally.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr reacts during the AFC Champions League Elite – Quarter Final match between Yokohama Marinosi and Al Nassr.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo still have unfinished business with their teams
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have undeniably impacted their respective clubs, yet neither has clinched a league title. Inter Miami capitalized on their impressive FIFA Club World Cup 2025 performance by signing Rodrigo De Paul, a strategic move aimed at team rebuilding. Despite these efforts, Messi’s squad still suffers from a lack of depth, which has hindered its ability to consistently make a significant impact throughout the season.
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Cristiano Ronaldo reaches two assists in 2025: How many does Lionel Messi have so far?
Interestingly, Al Nassr are undergoing significant changes, starting with the appointment of Jorge Jesus as head coach. Additionally, Cristiano Ronaldo now has new world-class teammates: Kingsley Coman, Iñigo Martinez, and Joao Felix. With these enhancements, both Messi and Ronaldo are entering a new season with a common goal: to secure their first league title with their respective teams.
