I'd like to play with Messi - Cristiano Ronaldo

Speaking at the official press conference ahead of the Ballon d'Or ceremony, the top three nominated players were asked which footballers from the past they would like to have played with.

Messi and Neuer declined to give names in their answers, but Ronaldo surprised the watching media by revealing he would like to link up with his Barcelona rival and the Germany goalkeeper.

According to Ronaldo....

"Football is about the present," he said. "The most important thing is the present. In the past there were great players, but for me it would be interesting to play with the two that are here with me now."

Later, Messi was asked whether he would like to take up Ronaldo's offer and play with the
Portuguese one day.

Messi replied....

"I always like playing with the best players," he said. "It may be difficult because of the teams we play for, but I like to play with the best and he is one of them."