Doubts have been cast over whether a stunning GOAT union could take place in the United States with time running out on Cristiano Ronaldo joining eternal rival Lionel Messi in MLS.Â
Philippe Senderos has told GOAL that two all-time greats remain on “different paths”, but the American game is being backed to create its own superstars as “football culture” continues to grow.
Argentine icon Messi decided to go chasing the American dream in 2023 when linking up with Inter Miami. Manchester United and England legend Sir David Beckham, as co-owner of the Herons, helped to make that deal possible.
He has seen the eight-time Ballon dOr winner deliver Leagues Cup, Supporters Shield and MLS Cup glory in South Florida, with the most decorated player in history continuing to enhance his glittering CV.
Ronaldo has been doing likewise, with the evergreen frontman still going strong at 41 years of age. He has just savored a Saudi Pro League title triumph with Al-Nassr and will be joining Messi at the 2026 World Cup – as they captain Portugal and Argentina respectively.
Having finally landed a major honor in the Middle East, questions have been asked of whether CR7 – who remains keen to become a teammate of his son Cristiano Jr – could be tempted to take on another new challenge.
Beckham, as another legendary United No.7, is considered to be positioned to put a remarkable deal in place. Messi and Ronaldo have never graced the same team before, so could that happen before both head into retirement?
Asked if he would like to see the powers of two sporting superheroes combine, ex-Arsenal defender Senderos – who spent time with the Houston Dynamo towards the end of his career – told GOAL while speaking in association with Spreadex Sports: “I think they chose different paths, obviously, with Ronaldo coming to Saudi Arabia and Messi in the US. It’s okay if they stay apart.
“I think now they’re coming towards the last part of their career. It would be amazing already to see them at the World Cup. We don’t know if we’re going to see them in another World Cup so that would be amazing for everyone to see already.”
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