In terms of popularity, Messi is way ahead than Rooney. The major factor here is the performance of their respective National Football teams in FIFA World Cups. read more
Now, Rooney captains Manchester United which has arguably the most fans around the world but Messi always has been a top, top footballer and his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo keeps him always in the limelight which is definitely not the case with Rooney. read more
The answer is not Lionel Messi. According to Brandtix, which reviews the biggest footballer brands annually, Barcelona star Lionel Messi is not the world’s most popular player. In fact, Messi has been overtaken by fellow teammate Neymar Jr and rival Cristiano Ronaldo. read more