There's no doubting that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the two best players in the world.

Sure, there's a decent argument to suggest Luka Modric enjoyed a better 2018 specifically, but few would question Ronaldo and Messi's status as the two greatest players out there.

In terms of numbers, it seemed that Messi experienced a marginally more profitable year, producing more goals, assists and trophies across the 12 months.

Yet plenty will argue that Ronaldo takes the victory having won the Champions League, experienced a superior World Cup and having delivered for two top European clubs.

No matter what conditions you place upon the Messi vs Ronaldo debate, there will always be passionate supporters on both sides of the argument.

Ronaldo vs Messi

Aside from all the statistics and silverware, though, the very behaviour and personality of both players is sometimes dragged into the conversation, too.

There seems to be a generalised view that Messi is the humble and quiet one, whereas Ronaldo is allegedly self-centred and arrogant.

We'll let you make your mind up in that department but it's always been interesting to see how the two superstars have behaved on the rare occasions they're together.

Are Messi and Ronaldo friends?

Both will be more than aware of the debate that constantly follows them and it can often be construed that the two players simply don't get on.

Constant competition in the individual awards and the rival between Barcelona and Real Madrid certainly makes it a fair assumption, but is that really the case?

It's hard to tell. Yet aside from the complimentary comments the pair have given one another, a YouTube video has sought to address their relationship by showing clips of them meeting.

Created by YouTube user Mr Matador, it seems to launch a wrecking ball through the claim that Messi and Ronaldo aren't actually friends.

Take a look at the video down below: 

Not only are both respectful to one another, but they're often seen smiling together and happy to see each other.

Of course, there is never going to be overwhelming evidence given the few times they've met, but there's simply no substance to claims they don't get on.

That's in spite of an interesting quote from Messi back in 2017, which was taken a little too seriously by some football fans at the time.

"I don't know if we will be [friends in the future]. Friendship is built through spending time together and getting to know each other," he informed Marca. 

"We have no relationship, mainly because we only see each other at awards ceremonies and that's the only time we speak. Everything is fine, but our lives don't cross over very often."

Food for thought, but the respect between them is undeniable.

Who do you think is the better player - Messi or Ronaldo? Have your say in the comments section below.