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CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL 2020

Ronaldo says it's clear why he'd choose Mbappé over Neymar

El Fenómeno spoke at a Champions League Final preview event in which he assessed Barcelona's Messi issue, and looked at his compatriot's goal challenge.

Paris Saint-Germain's Brazilian forward Neymar (R) laughs with Paris Saint-Germain's French forward Kylian Mbappe during a training session at the Luz stadium in Lisbon on August 22, 2020 on the eve of the UEFA Champions League final football ma
MIGUEL A. LOPESAFP

Brazilian legend Ronaldo took questions at an event organised by Banco Santander, one that Figo and Rui Costa were also present, ahead of the Champions League final in Lisbon. Here’s a quick summary of some of his responses…

Legend | Ronaldo speaks at Banco Santander event
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Legend | Ronaldo speaks at Banco Santander event

Ronaldo points to Mbappé over Neymar for Madrid

On not having won the Champions League: "Unfortunately, it is the only cup that is missing in my trophy cabinet. But, although I haven’t won it, I have enjoyed it. I have played many games and I have scored many goals."

On Neymar’s lack of goals: "It is true that he has played very well in the last few games, especially in this final phase in Portugal, where he has created many chances. But he has lacked a bit of composure when finishing. He has goals in him, he has scored many, they come easy to him. With a bit of luck, in the final he will find that again. He has not forgotten how.”

The boy can play | Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar trains ahead of final.
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The boy can play | Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar trains ahead of final.MIGUEL A. LOPESPool via REUTERS

On his final prediction: "This final format has had many surprises. The teams with fewer chances have been able to win. Those in the final have deserved it, although they have had some scares, but it is a true Champions League final. Let's hope for a tremendous end."

On Luis Suárez: "He is still one of the best number 9s today, along with Lewandowski and Benzema, who is another one that I love. I am convinced that he still has many years in him representing this much loved position."

On Messi situation: "It is very unlikely that he will be able to leave Barcelona, especially in these moments when there is a crisis. If I were Barça, I would not let him leave in any situation.”

A great low | Barcelona's Lionel Messi looks dejected durinh Bayern battering.
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A great low | Barcelona's Lionel Messi looks dejected durinh Bayern battering.POOLREUTERS

On his previous comment that he would sign Mbappé before Neymar if Real Madrid president: "I still think that. It is not that one is better than the other, but if you have to make an investment of so much money then you have to think about the future. One is 28, the other 21, and that's why it is a much clearer investment. It would make a lot more sense."