Wayne Rooney has defended Lionel Messi after Cristiano Ronaldo claimed Saudi Arabia’s league is stronger than the MLS.

Messi officially became an Inter Miami player last week, but Ronaldo was less than impressed with the MLS tournament. The Argentine’s former great rival, who now plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, told reporters: “The Saudi championship is much better than that of the United States.”

Now, Ronaldo’s former teammate Rooney, who now leads MLS team DC United, has rushed to Messi’s defense. The former Red Devils told The Athletic: “This league (MLS) has all the potential to be one of the biggest. You can see Saudi Arabia trying to get some players. So, for MLS to get Messi is huge, competing with the rich in Saudi than getting Messi?”

Messi has signed a contract until 2025 worth up to $60m (£46m) per season. However, with his new club at the bottom of the table in the Eastern MLS region, the 2022 World Cup champion may not be able to take on MLS easily. On the quality of the tournament, Rooney said: “This tournament is of a very high quality. It can be a bit disrespectful. You get called by the agent and it’s almost an insult to some players. that you’re offered – they’re not nearly ready or good enough to play in the league.”

Messi has welcomed more old teammates at Barcelona, ​​including Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and the upcoming, most likely, Luis Suarez. El Pulga could make his debut against Mexican side Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup on July 21.