4 Premier Soccer League Stars Who Hailed Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as Inspirations

• Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have inspired many footballers over the years with their talent and determination
• Teko Modise touched on the difference between the Portuguese star and the World Cup-winning Argentinian player
• Itumeleng Khune explained that the reason he still competes is because of Messi and Ronaldo's continued hunger

It’s easy to see why Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are considered two of the GOATs of world football.

The duo have reached numerous milestones, broken many records over the years, and inspired many players.

It’s not just footballers who played alongside Messi and Ronaldo who have been wowed by their abilities; stars in the Premier Soccer League have also hailed the duo’s influence.

With Peter Shalulile becoming the latest to pay tribute, Sports Brief looks at four stars who also stated their admiration for either the Argentinian or Portuguese legend, or both.

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Junior Khanye

A legend of Kaizer Chiefs, Khanye is no stranger to sharing his thoughts.

Now a respected analyst, Khanye weighed in on the pair's performances during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, iDiski Times noted.

“Ronaldo is a hard-working player and luck is on his side always. Messi is one of the most gifted ever players. He is one of the best,” Khanye said.

Itumeleng Khune

Khune can be considered one of the GOATs of South African football, but even he makes mistakes.

Earlier this year, the club suspended him, and while on the sidelines, he admitted that he was inspired by Messi and Ronaldo, The South African noted.

He explained that the duo were always hungry for more, despite the success they’ve already achieved, and that he resonated with that.

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Teko Modise

Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates star Modise also greatly respects the duo.

Nicknamed The General, Modise praised both players but highlighted the difference between them.

He noted that footballers could learn to be like CR7 through hard work, but Messi’s talent could not be taught.

Abubeker Nasir

Messi’s influence can even be traced to Ethiopia.

Mamelodi Sundowns’ Abubeker Nasir admires the Argentinian and was extremely happy he won the 2022 World Cup.

As noted by FAR Post, Nasir took to social media after Argentina beat France in the final, speaking about being amazed by his skill.

“I grew up watching you (Messi) and being amazed by your skills since I was a kid.

“I can’t express my feelings when you have accomplished this, and your happiness is complete. You made my night, too,” he wrote.

Shalulile admires Ronaldo's work ethic

Peter Shalulile didn’t have the best season for Mamelodi Sundowns, but he won’t let that stop him from bouncing back.

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The Namibian international has promised to keep going to come back stronger, crediting his determination to that of Al-Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

Sports Brief reported that Shalulile credited Ronaldo with being an inspiration, highlighting his work ethic and determination as reasons for his success.