Ivan Rakitic: Croatian names Lionel Messi as all-time great, praises Ronaldo
- Ivan Rakitic gave a blunt answer by describing Lionel Messi as the all-time great
- The Croatian playmaker has played alongside the Argentine for six years at Camp Nou
- Rakitic also said there are chances he can play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Juventus
Barcelona star, Ivan Rakitic, has admitted it would be a dream to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in Juventus as talks continue to generate over his future with the Spanish champions.
The Croatian midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from Camp Nou since the arrival of versatile playmaker Frenkie de Jong from Ajax in the last summer.
Rakitic was billed to depart to Italy last year after Juventus and Inter showed their interest on him amid interest from Manchester United and PSG, only for the switch failing to materialise.
But with the Croatian emerging as part of a deal to bring Neymar from Paris-Saint-Germain, Rakitic is optimistic about playing in Italy should Barcelona departure come in the next summer.
The playmaker has now admitted there is a chance of sharing the locker room with the Portuguese star who he played against when he was at Real Madrid.
Giving a blunt assessment of Ronaldo's contribution to football, Rakitic described the five-time Ballon d'Or winner as a dream to play with, though ranked the Juve star behind his arch-rival, Lionel Messi.
"Of course I would. He is also one of the greatest players in history," Rakitic replied. "You enjoy watching him play and he's doing well at Juventus."
The Croatian, who is on his six-year campaign at Camp Nou, said Lionel Messi is on another level from Ronaldo, describing the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as the greatest of all time.
It's amazing to play with him - he's special. There have been great players in every era, but I'm sure he's been the best in the last 15 years," Rakitic said.
Barcelona join Liverpool, Real Madrid in race to sign exciting Super Eagles winger
"In my opinion, I think he's the best of all time. Being with him for six years has been incredible."
PAY ATTENTION: Become a member of the leading sports Facebook group 'Naija Football Fan Zone
Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that Ronaldo de Lima might have settled the debate on the all-time great after naming Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi as the number one best player he always enjoys watching.
The Brazilian football icon had an enviable career and he is often considered one of the best players who brought class and blended physicality with technique in modern football.
Amokachi twins: Why we dumped Besiktas for Kwara United | Legit TV