Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would play for the same team before retiring 'it would be a dream'

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been told that joining forces to end their illustrious careers would be a “dream come true”. Former Tottenham and Portsmouth midfielder Pedro Mendes has floated the tantalising idea that the two footballing titans, who were once fierce rivals during their spells at Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively, should team up for one last time.

Messi is currently playing at Inter Miami after joining the club last year, while Ronaldo remains with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr after a headline-grabbing move following his second departure from Manchester United. But Mendes, who shared the pitch with Ronaldo at the 2010 World Cup, believes the Portuguese should consider joining the David Beckham-owned club to play alongside Messi.

In a conversation with BoyleSports, known for offering the latest Premier League betting odds, Mendes expressed his vision: “If Cristiano Ronaldo joined Inter Miami it would be incredible for the fans and incredible for football in America,” reports the Mirror.

“It would mean that the two best players in the history and future of football, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, would end their careers together, which would be a dream come true,” he added. “But I don't see how that could happen. It would be very difficult,” he added.

Ronaldo, 39, was left disappointed earlier this month when Portugal were knocked out of Euro 2024 after a penalty shootout defeat to France in the quarter-finals. During the tournament, Ronaldo had revealed that this was indeed his last European Championship, but suggested he could still play for Portugal beyond this summer in a heartfelt thank-you note to the Selecao fans after their defeat.

“We wanted more. We deserved more. For us. For each of you. For Portugal,” he wrote on Instagram. “We are grateful for everything you have given us and for everything we have achieved so far. On and off the pitch, I am sure this legacy will be honoured and will continue to be built. Together.”

Ronaldo's performances at the Euros were widely panned by critics. It was the first major international tournament in his career where he failed to score a single goal. The Al-Nassr forward started all five of Portugal's matches and, despite his goalless spells, was consistently picked out by Roberto Martinez.

The Seleçao coach, who also coached Belgium, refused to say whether Ronaldo and Pepe would retire from international football after the defeat to France. He also paid tribute to the defender who was seen in tears after the penalty shootout loss.

“His tears are a reflection of frustration,” Martinez said. “Pepe is a role model for Portuguese football. What he did tonight and during the tournament will remain etched in our memory for future generations.”