2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)

Whether football fans like him or not, Cristiano Ronaldo is unquestionably one of the greatest players in the history of the game.

His freekick ability has been thestudy of physicists in Englandwho are attempting to understand the unique rotation he puts on the ball as he drills it towards goal. 

He single-handedly defeated Barcelona in the 2011 Copa Del Rey final to claim Real Madrid's first trophy against their archrivals in three seasons.

Furthermore, he holds the honor of being the last person to win the Balon d'Or for being the best player on the planet in 2008—before his Argentinian nemesis went on to bag himself a hat-trick of trophies.

For his national side, he has not been as fortunate as he has proved for Manchester United and Real Madrid. However, he did captain his country en route to the semifinals of Euro 2012 and played in the magnificent 4-0 victory against neighbors Spain in November 2010.

While still in England, he managed to break the record for goals scored by a midfielder when he topped the Golden Boot standings in 2008 with 31 goals, and also managed to come home a victor in that year's Champions League—despite missing a penalty kick in the final.

Following several impressive years under Sir Alex Ferguson, he was bought by Real Madrid for almost €94 million—the highest transfer fee of all time. There, he continues to excel as he and Messi battle back and forth for each season's top scorer prize.

For generations to come, the debate between Messi and Ronaldo as to who in fact was the best in the world will wage on. However, in terms of accolades alone, Messi has edged this battle for now.

Ronaldo is unlikely to leave for a new club any time in the near future. At 27 years old, he still has several seasons in front of him, and is likely valued at well over €100 million. He will probably wind down his years in the Spanish capital as he continues to collect trophies.