Messi and Ronaldo still need to do more? The bold statement from Paul Pogba that many football fans question

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continuing to play for their national teams is a very surprising thing to see, even though they are two of the greatest players of all time. The two are still the key players for their national teams and are playing in important competitions for their national teams that they have already won in the past. Their time in football is almost done, but many agree that they have nothing more to prove since they have won multiple important trophies throughout their career. Paul Pogba does not agree, and without disrespecting the two legends, the French midfielder believes that Messi and Ronaldo still need to prove themselves at this stage of their career. Pogba said, "Look at players like Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi. They still have to prove that they are Cristiano and Messi, even after everything they have done. Football is beautiful, but it is cruel.” Some fans disagree with the statement, while others could understand what he means.

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Ronaldo's call-up for the EURO 2024 was not a surprise since he had an amazing season with Al Nassr. The Portugal national team tried to play Goncalo Ramos in the striker position, but Ronaldo continued to show his impact on the pitch by linking up with the rest of the star players in the squad. Ronaldo shocked fans when he couldn't score a goal in the group stage of the EUROS for the first time in his career.

Messi continues to show why he is also the key player for Argentina. The Argentina national team still count on him to provide plays for their star strikers like Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez. Argentina needed Messi in the 2022 World Cup, and he was their best player, which led to them winning the tournament.

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When will Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi retire?

Ronaldo's contract with Al Nassr expires in the summer of 2025. Messi's contract with Inter Miami expires in December 2025. It seems likely that the two will retire either next year or in 2026 if they feel they can still compete with their respective teams. This makes fans wonder if they can both play in the 2026 World Cup, which is two years away.