The Italian defender has played both, but obviously prefers facing one to the other
Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has revealed the difference between facing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi .
The veteran Italian, and one of the finest central defenders of a generation, has come up against both players in elite competition both at international and club level.
And while he holds the Real Madrid forward in high regard, there’s no doubt over where he ranks Messi in comparison when he was asked how to defend against either.
“Knowing your opponent is fundamental,” he told Eurosport Italia.
“Because then you can know their characteristics better.
“With Cristiano Ronaldo you mark him trying to not let him inside on the right. With Messi… you cross yourself and pray!”
Chiellini is hoping to lead Juventus to a second successive Champions League final after a 2-2 draw in the first leg.
The 31-year-old missed last year’s final against Barcelona, a 3-1 defeat, and is keen to avenge that heartache in Milan this year.
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