Messi’s Strength Leaves De Gea in Awe as He Praises Ronaldo

Lionel Messi’s strength has amazed David de Gea, who also calls Cristiano Ronaldo “not normal” after facing both football icons in his remarkable career.

Lionel Messi’s Strength Impresses David de Gea

Lionel Messi’s strength is often overshadowed by his dazzling footwork and technical brilliance, but former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has highlighted the Argentine’s surprising resilience and physical power. De Gea, who encountered Messi during intense La Liga clashes while at Atlético Madrid, recently described Messi as “made of marble”—a nod to Messi’s unwavering ability to withstand challenges and remain upright under pressure.

According to De Gea, “Normally, you’d expect a player of Messi’s size to go down after a shoulder-to-shoulder, but not him—he just bounces right off and keeps going.” This steadfastness, paired with Messi’s low center of gravity, makes him a nightmare for defenders and goalkeepers alike.

Playing with Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United

De Gea’s perspective carries extra weight, not only for his encounters with Lionel Messi in La Liga but also for his experience sharing a dressing room with Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United. Working closely with Ronaldo from his return to Old Trafford in 2021, De Gea observed firsthand the Portuguese star’s work ethic and elite mentality.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is not normal,” De Gea joked. “His level of professionalism, his attitude, and the hours he puts in—there’s nothing else like it in football.” According to De Gea, Ronaldo’s dedication sets him apart, as he continually pushes himself and those around him to reach new heights.

The Signature Styles of Messi and Ronaldo

What makes Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo stand out, according to De Gea, is their completely different yet equally effective approaches to the game. Messi relies on his dribbling, agility, and vision, making seemingly impossible movements appear effortless. In contrast, Ronaldo imposes himself through sheer athleticism, aerial dominance, and powerful shooting.

Having defended against both legends, De Gea is uniquely positioned to compare their styles. He says Messi’s ability to roll past defenders and maintain possession through physical tussles makes him a constant threat in tight spaces. Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s relentless physical preparation and hunger for goals mean danger can appear out of nowhere.

De Gea on Mentality and Longevity

De Gea also credits both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo for their mental resilience and longevity. The Spanish keeper recognizes that staying at the top of the football world is about more than just talent—it’s the ability to adapt, recover, and find motivation season after season.

“In big moments, their confidence never drops,” De Gea explained. “They can change a match in a second, even late in their careers.” His remarks highlight why Messi and Ronaldo have set the standard for footballers in their generation and inspired so many young players.

Messi and Ronaldo’s Global Impact

Beyond their clubs and leagues, the influence of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo extends worldwide. Messi continues to break records and wow fans at Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League has brought global attention to new frontiers in football.

Their ability to adapt their game and maintain excellence has helped increase the popularity and visibility of the sport in regions far beyond Europe. For goalkeepers like De Gea, the opportunity to compete with and learn from two living legends adds a unique chapter to a professional journey.

Comparison of Physical and Mental Attributes

When examining Lionel Messi’s strength, it becomes evident that his compact build allows him to shield the ball and withstand aggressive challenges. This physical toughness complements his technical skills, enabling him to remain effective even when opponents attempt to disrupt his rhythm.

Cristiano Ronaldo, by contrast, has become synonymous with extraordinary fitness and athletic ability. His relentless training regimen, even as he approaches 40, continues to yield results on the pitch. De Gea’s experiences in training and matches confirm that Ronaldo’s drive for perfection is as strong as ever.

Opinion: Two GOATs Who Redefine Excellence

In my view, Lionel Messi’s strength and Cristiano Ronaldo’s relentless drive represent two different, equally inspiring paths to greatness. De Gea’s admiration, having both faced and trained with these stars, reaffirms what fans have long believed: there is no single blueprint for footballing success. Whether you admire Messi’s artfulness or Ronaldo’s physical supremacy, both have earned their place among football’s all-time greats.

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