El Clasico 2017: 5 key individual battles

#1 Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo

The ultimate battle

No such list is complete without the inclusion of these two, is it? The greatest players on the planet go head-to-head in the Clasico yet again, in search of early bragging rights from silverware.

5 Time Ballon d'Or Winners, the Argentine and the Portuguese forward display what proves to be the most scintillating form of attacking football to millions of followers around the globe, and it is astounding how they manage to deliver the same level of genius day-in and day-out.

The big men have started the new season on different frequencies. While Messi has found his scoring boots in the Spanish League, Ronaldo has been netting goals in the Champions League. Ernesto Valverde's inclusion to the helm has reinstalled Messi as a False 9, and he now happens to create even more chances for his teammates.

On the other hand, Zinedine Zidane has transformed Cristiano Ronaldo into a fox-in-the-box. A predator near the goal, his physicality and supreme finishing skills make Ronaldo a threat on every night.

Which of these superstars will have the last laugh?

Messi's tremendous ability and Ronaldo's obsession for perfection would be on display yet again in what promises to be a title-defying clash early in the season.

Cristiano Ronaldo also commented on how important it is for Madrid to steal three points from their rivals. The Catalan main man also commented on the importance of a Clasico and spoke about his feelings about a potential victory in the Spanish Capital.

La Liga 2017 stats comparision:

Goals: Messi (14) - Ronaldo (4)

Assists: Messi (5) - Ronaldo (2)

Big chances created: Messi (14) - Ronaldo (6)