Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke has stated that while Cristiano Ronaldo is a phenomenal "athlete", he believes Lionel Messi is a footballing "god".
Ronaldo and Messi have won the last six Ballon d'Or awards between them, sparking a debate among world football fans as to which of the two players is superior.
Koke, though, believes that while Ronaldo’s physical prowess warrants recognition, Messi is a divine talent.
"Ronaldo is an athlete, but Messi is a god," the Spain international told Al Primer Toque.
"They're both great players. I see them on the pitch and it's spectacular. It's tough to decide. You always want them on your team, and even though it's Cristiano, I'd choose Messi."
However, despite his reverence for Messi, Koke rejected the opportunity to play alongside him at Barcelona this season.
"I made the decision to continue at Atletico," the 22-year-old explained. "I appreciated the interest of Barcelona, but why would I have left during what is such a good time for Atletico?"
