Ronaldo and Messi have battled it out in La Liga since 2009 when the Portuguese joined Real from Manchester United.
And they’re both set to compete for the Ballon d’Or again this year, with one of the duo likely to move above the other on to six awards.
Cristiano Ronaldo has being La Liga’s top scorer in his sights too and is currently three goals adrift of Messi.
The latest reports from Spain indicate the Real star has learned he may be able to take advantage of Messi’s injury worries and usurp the Barcelona ace though.
According to Diario Gol, Ronaldo is aware that ‘Messi’s pains are more serious than people think’.
And that means he will have to be rested so he is fit to play in the Champions League and the World Cup.
Lionel Messi and Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde have apparently agreed the Argentine will only play in key La Liga games.
And that will give Ronaldo the chance to bridge the gap to Messi in the goalscoring standings.
Messi’s thigh and hamstring problems will allow Valverde to hand more opportunities to Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele.
And Barcelona will be hoping that does not derail them as they look to secure a La Liga, Champions League and Copa del Rey treble.
Argentina boss Jorge Sampaoli is said to be pleased that Messi is being rested with the World Cup in mind.
Although the potential severity of Messi’s injuries and the impact they could have on his game is still an issue.
