Several players in Vitor Pereira’s squad have played with the greatest players in world football.
Matheus Cunha idolises Neymar, and the Wolves centre-forward has played with the Brazilian icon at international level.
Cunha was also called up to Brazil by Dorival Junior ahead of their upcoming World Cup Qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina this month, allowing him to play alongside world-class Real Madrid duo Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
But perhaps no one in the squad can beat the pedigree that right-back Nelson Semedo possesses, as he’s played with both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, two of the greatest players ever.
However, when asked about who he preferred between the two superstars, his answer sparked controversy.
Nelson Semedo settled Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi debate in 2017
Before completing a £37 million switch to Wolves in 2020, Semedo played alongside Messi at Barcelona for three years, often down the same side as the Argentine magician.
The 31-year-old is also Ronaldo’s teammate in the Portugal team and has spent many years with the Real Madrid legend.
| Games played with Messi | Games played with Ronaldo |
| 106 | 30 |
In 2017, Semedo was quizzed on which player he preferred most but, rather than dance to Messi’s tune, he opted to sit on the fence.
“Both are extraordinary and decisive, their numbers and their records say it all, playing against them is different, they have different characteristics, it’s very easy to play with either, it’s great to play alongside the best,” he said.
“There are not many who have that opportunity and I can boast of playing alongside the two best players in the world, now it only happens to me and André Gomes, we are privileged!
“It is difficult to say which of the two is better, both are from another planet and I am lucky to play with both of them.”
According to Spanish outlet Diario Gol, Messi wasn’t pleased that Semedo put the two forwards on the same level, leaving him furious with the answer.
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Semedo’s stance on Ronaldo and Messi has never changed
Six years after his initial response, the Wolves defender was asked the age-old question once more, and continued to sit on the fence.
Speaking to Sky Sports in December 2023, Semedo said: “The two best players in the history of the football, they’re two different players obviously. Cristiano is more as a striker than anything and Leo is more of a playmaker.
“They’re both very different players but they’re both the best at doing what they do. It wouldn’t be fair to choose, because like I told you, both are incredible and I had the privilege to learn from them, play with them and to share good moments with them, to win some titles with them as well. I just go for both.”
People will always have their preference in the debate but as both players approach the end of their careers, it’s time to just appreciate their greatness and achievements without comparing.